21 January 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : In a decisive move to curb organised crime, the Punjab government has launched a large-scale security अभियान titled ‘Operation Prahar’, deploying nearly 2,000 police teams across the state to crack down on gangsters, criminal networks, and their associates. The operation marks one of the most extensive coordinated law enforcement drives in recent years, aimed at restoring public confidence and reinforcing the state’s zero-tolerance approach towards crime.
Senior police officials confirmed that the operation was rolled out simultaneously across urban centres, rural belts, and sensitive border districts. The focus is on dismantling gangster ecosystems, arresting wanted criminals, tightening surveillance on suspects, and disrupting financial and logistical networks that support organised crime.
A Coordinated Statewide Action
Under Operation Prahar, police teams have been instructed to carry out intensive raids, checkpoints, search operations, and verification drives. These teams include personnel from district police, special task forces, intelligence units, and local law enforcement. The objective is to ensure that criminals have no safe havens, whether in cities, villages, or border regions.
Officials said that special attention is being given to areas that have witnessed recent incidents of violence, extortion, targeted killings, and drug-linked crimes. By deploying teams strategically, the police aim to cover maximum territory and apply continuous pressure on criminal elements.
Targeting Gang Networks and Support Systems
Unlike conventional policing operations that focus only on arrests, Operation Prahar has been designed to attack the entire ecosystem of organised crime. This includes not just gang leaders, but also their financiers, facilitators, informers, and logistical supporters.
Police are scrutinising properties linked to known gangsters, monitoring suspicious financial transactions, and intensifying surveillance on individuals with criminal backgrounds. Authorities believe that cutting off the support structure will significantly weaken gangs’ ability to operate.
Strong Message of Zero Tolerance
The operation sends a clear political and administrative message that the state will not tolerate lawlessness. Government sources indicated that the initiative reflects a commitment to ensure that ordinary citizens can live without fear, and that businesses, professionals, and youth are protected from criminal intimidation.
Public safety has become a major concern in recent times, with several high-profile cases drawing attention to the growing influence of organised crime. The launch of Operation Prahar is being viewed as a direct response to public demand for stronger action.
Public Cooperation Encouraged
Alongside enforcement, the police have also appealed to citizens to cooperate with the drive. People are being encouraged to report suspicious activities, share information about criminal elements, and support verification drives in their neighbourhoods.
Police officials emphasised that community participation plays a crucial role in the success of such operations. Trust between citizens and law enforcement, they said, is essential for long-term crime prevention.
Boost to Police Morale and Infrastructure
The scale of Operation Prahar has also boosted morale within the police force. Officers on the ground have described the initiative as a rare opportunity to take proactive control rather than respond reactively to crime incidents.
The deployment of modern tools, improved coordination between units, and intelligence-driven strategies are also helping enhance operational efficiency. Experts believe that such large-scale operations, when sustained, can lead to structural improvements in policing systems.
Political and Social Reactions
The operation has received mixed but largely positive reactions across political and social circles. Supporters have praised the government for taking bold steps to tackle crime head-on. Many civil society groups have welcomed the move, calling it essential for restoring law and order.
At the same time, some critics have urged the government to ensure that the operation remains fair, transparent, and within legal boundaries. They stress that while tough action is necessary, protecting civil liberties and preventing misuse of power must remain a priority.
Long-Term Impact on Law and Order
Security analysts believe that the real success of Operation Prahar will depend on its continuity rather than its immediate outcomes. While mass deployments and raids can create short-term pressure on criminal networks, sustained intelligence gathering, judicial follow-up, and systemic reforms are required for lasting impact.
If maintained over time, the operation could significantly weaken organised crime in Punjab, reduce fear among the public, and encourage economic and social stability.
A Turning Point for Punjab’s Security Landscape
For many residents, the operation represents hope that the state is finally taking firm steps to address long-standing concerns about crime and safety. With 2,000 police teams actively working on the ground, the message is clear: the administration intends to reclaim public spaces and ensure that the rule of law prevails.
As Operation Prahar unfolds in the coming days, its outcomes will be closely watched by citizens, political observers, and security experts alike.
Summary
Punjab has launched ‘Operation Prahar’, deploying 2,000 police teams statewide to crack down on gangsters and organised crime, aiming to restore law and order, dismantle criminal networks, and strengthen public safety.