Government must focus on the development of border areas; AAP government has failed to provide employment, quality education, and healthcare to youth: Pargat Singh
Ferozepur (The Uttam Hindu): Olympian and MLA Padma Shri Pargat Singh, who also serves as Secretary of the All India Congress Committee, attended the Ferozepur Border Marathon 2025 as a special guest, organized by the Golden Arrow Division at the Ferozepur Cantonment. He lauded the efforts of the Indian Army, noting that while the Punjab government has been indifferent toward saving the youth ensnared in drug addiction, the Army is setting a strong example by spreading the message of good health and discipline among thousands of young people. The marathon also served as a tribute to the martyred soldiers who laid down their lives for the nation.
He noted that the youth enthusiastically participated in the 5 km and 10 km half-marathon events organized by the Army. Such initiatives not only encourage fitness but also inspire young people to steer clear of drugs and lead productive lives. At the Hussainiwala border, participants ran to promote awareness about health and fitness. Senior Army officers and political leaders were also present at the event.
Olympian and Padma Shri Pargat Singh emphasized that the border regions require the government’s serious attention. He said the residents of villages around the Ferozepur border urgently need access to quality education, healthcare, employment, and developmental opportunities. Currently, many young people in these areas are trapped in drug abuse and even involved in drug trafficking. The government must take concrete steps to develop these regions so that living standards improve and young people can contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress.
Former Education Minister Pargat Singh further stated that the Punjab government is misleading the people with mere slogans like “War Against Drugs.” The government once claimed it would eradicate drug abuse within months, but the reality is that drug addiction remains rampant in border areas. The administration has failed to dismantle the network of drug trafficking.
He also remarked that the government has completely failed to maintain law and order. The Aam Aadmi Party government has turned Punjab into a virtual police state, where incidents of murder and shootings have become routine. Hardly a day passes without such violent crimes. The AAP government must take strict measures against drug abuse and rising crime to restore public confidence and ensure safety.
Issued by:
Office of MLA Padma Shri Pargat Singh
Secretary, All India Congress Committee & Former Education Minister