Union Home Minister Amit Shah attended Vijayadashami celebrations in Ludhiana, Punjab, where he burned an effigy portraying 'Chitta'—a local term associated with drugs—as a symbolic Ravana. The act was presented as a message against drug trafficking.
Addressing the gathering, Shah described the Dussehra tradition of burning Ravana's effigy as a reminder that good can prevail over wrongdoing. He urged individuals to reject greed and arrogance, and referred to the Ludhiana Ramlila committee's 200-year history of organising the event.
Shah also spoke about meeting families in three places in Punjab whose sons had died amid the struggle against drugs. He said the investigation of one death had been transferred to the CBI and asked the state government to transfer the other two cases as well. He promised to pursue accountability regardless of the influence of those involved, saying that no individual would be beyond investigation.
The Home Minister said he wanted to see Punjab free of the drug trade by 31 December 2029. He described that goal as a tribute to those who had lost their lives and encouraged citizens to share information on trafficking through the Narcotics Control Bureau helpline. He said there could be no better tribute to the bereaved families.
In discussing the government's record, Shah referred to changes involving Article 370 and 35A and claimed progress in countering terrorism and Naxalism. He said action against drug networks would remain a priority.