Punjab stands at a crucial stage, with several decisions concerning the state drawing attention at both the state and constitutional levels. From matters awaiting consideration to decisions that could shape Punjab’s future, the role of the Governor remains significant. In an exclusive conversation with Dainik Savera, Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria discussed how decisions concerning Punjab are being taken, what factors are being considered, and what the state can expect in the days ahead.
‘Punjab Is A Land Of Brave People’
Asked about his experience after completing two years as Punjab Governor and how he viewed the Punjab government, Kataria said he got an opportunity to study and understand Punjab closely during this period.
He said Punjab has always been known as a land of brave people and has played an important role in the country’s history. He said the first resistance against invaders was also witnessed in Punjab, while the state made a major contribution to India’s freedom struggle.
Kataria said the values, ideals and teachings given by the ten Sikh Gurus have had a deep influence on the people of Punjab.
He said these values could be seen closely after he came to the state, particularly in the way people come forward to help others during difficult times.
Giving the example of last year’s floods, when 12 districts were affected, Kataria said a major contribution was made by local people along with the government’s efforts to help those affected.
According to Kataria, the spirit of service among the people of Punjab is deeply connected with the values given by the Gurus.
He recalled how langars were organised continuously for nearly 240 hours during the floods and essential items were distributed free of cost among people in need.
He said the spirit of serving humanity has been deeply rooted in the people of Punjab and has been reflected repeatedly during times of crisis.
‘Punjab Has Both Strengths And Challenges’
Speaking about Punjab’s strengths and challenges, Governor Gulab Chand Kataria said the state has a strong ability to take decisions and has also been blessed by nature.
He said agriculture and industry have developed strongly in Punjab, while Ludhiana is often referred to as the “Manchester of Punjab” because of its industrial base. He also highlighted the importance of the bicycle industry and said Punjab has a strong media sector.
At the same time, Kataria said drug abuse and unemployment remain two major challenges before the state.
He said both the strengths and weaknesses of Punjab have been seen during his time in the state. Punjab has a large number of sportspersons, while the contribution of the NRI community to the state’s development has also been significant, he added.
‘Values Of Sikh Gurus Can Be Seen In People’s Behaviour’
When asked what he had learned about Sikhism and Punjab’s religious traditions, Kataria said his experiences had been very positive.
He said that wherever he had travelled in Punjab and visited a gurdwara, the behaviour of the people reflected the values and teachings associated with the Sikh Gurus.
According to him, people do not always need to be invited to participate in service. They come forward on their own and participate with faith and devotion.
Kataria also pointed towards the contribution of religious saints and deras in social service. He said messages of service are being taken to people through religious institutions, while education is also being provided to children in some places. Hospitals are also being run as part of such social initiatives, he said.
‘Drug Abuse Is Punjab’s Biggest Enemy Today’
Asked about the drug problem in Punjab and his earlier efforts to raise the issue, Kataria said he comes from a simple and modest family and grew up among ordinary people.
He said his position today was because of the people and, therefore, he did not want to simply enjoy his stay at Raj Bhavan. Instead, he wanted to contribute towards issues concerning the people.
Recalling an interaction with families from border areas, Kataria said people had appealed to him to protect their children from drugs.
He said such experiences had made him realise how seriously drug abuse is affecting Punjab’s youth.
Kataria said he believes drug abuse is one of the biggest threats facing Punjab today and that every political party will have to fight against it.
He also described drug trafficking as a challenge involving the border, saying that drones, weapons and drugs are frequently recovered from border areas. He said the presence of drug consumption in Punjab also makes the state a target for trafficking networks.
‘Drug Menace Cannot Be Tackled By One Person’
Kataria said he had undertaken padyatras and interacted with religious leaders and the Education Department to discuss the drug problem.
He said the issue cannot be solved by one person alone and that public participation is necessary. According to him, unless people join the effort and it becomes a wider movement, the problem cannot be completely addressed.
He said offenders can be punished, but merely punishing criminals cannot completely eliminate crime.
Referring to his earlier remarks about possible police-administration involvement in drug trafficking, Kataria said that based on his 50 years of experience, such a network cannot function without the involvement or support of police and authorities.
He said if the government, administration and police collectively decide to act against the drug trade, it can be brought under control.
He also noted that the Centre has opened de-addiction centres, but said rehabilitation can succeed only when families and people around an affected person also decide to support that individual.
Kataria said young people should not simply be blamed for drug addiction and that they need support to come out of it.
On Opium Cultivation: ‘Synthetic Drugs Are A Bigger Danger’
When asked about demands from some political quarters for the cultivation of opium as a possible way to reduce the impact of other drugs, Kataria said drug abuse had existed in the country in different forms for a long time.
He compared alcohol with synthetic drugs and said that while alcohol consumption can damage health over a long period, the synthetic drug commonly known as “chitta” can severely damage the lives of young people within a much shorter period.
He said the availability of drugs through the border remains a major challenge and that stopping the flow of drugs into Punjab requires strong action.
Kataria also raised concerns about the influence of money in society. He said the perception that wealth brings respect can encourage people to look for easy ways of making money.
He recalled that earlier, people were often chosen as community leaders on the basis of their character and conduct, whereas today, he said, financial power can also influence social status.
‘Every Political Party Will Have To Fight Drugs’
Asked whether he sees honesty among leaders from different political parties whom he meets, Kataria said such people do exist.
He said the country may sometimes lose its direction, but it does not get destroyed. According to him, there are moments when people realise their mistakes, rethink their actions and change their approach.
On the growing concerns over drugs, gangsters and extortion ahead of the elections, Kataria said memorandums and representations from different political parties and groups were being received.
He said that whenever such complaints are received, action is taken through the Director General of Police (DGP) wherever possible.
Kataria said the upcoming elections have also increased the focus on these issues, but stressed that the fight against drugs and crime should remain an important priority for Punjab beyond the electoral cycle.