Bhagwant Mann-Led Government Announces Cash Incentives to Tackle Gangsters

The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has introduced a significant “Reward Policy” aimed at strengthening action against criminals and gangsters in the state. Alongside the policy, authorities have released a list of 28 most wanted offenders. Under this initiative, the Punjab Police has been authorized to reward individuals who provide credible information about wanted criminals and their networks. The policy is part of the broader “War on Gangsters” campaign, designed to enhance public participation in maintaining law and order. As per the approved framework, Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) can sanction rewards up to ₹1 lakh. Police Commissioners, Range Inspectors General, and Deputy Inspectors General have been granted powers to approve rewards up to ₹1.5 lakh. Meanwhile, heads of police wings, including Special and Additional Directors General of Police, can authorize rewards up to ₹2 lakh. The Director General of Police (DGP) has been given authority to approve amounts exceeding ₹2 lakh. The government clarified that rewards will only be granted after proper verification of the information received. Officials emphasized that the identity of informants will remain strictly confidential at all levels, including within the police, the public, and the government. The initiative aims to eliminate criminal networks and ensure the safety of residents across the state. Authorities stated that the government is committed to taking all necessary steps to curb gangster activities. To facilitate information sharing, an Anti-Gangster Helpline (93946-93946) has been launched. The police stated that individuals providing reliable inputs leading to the arrest of wanted or habitual offenders will be eligible for rewards. Suggestions provided by informants will also be considered for further action. The information gathered under this policy will be utilized within “Operation Prahar” to further strengthen the ongoing anti-gangster campaign. The programme has been designed as a high-level reward system, ensuring complete anonymity for informants. Police officials have urged citizens to come forward and assist in eliminating criminal activities from the state. As part of the ongoing crackdown, Punjab Police has conducted 56,487 raids across the state at locations linked to associates of gangsters. These sites had been identified and mapped as part of the operation. Since the launch of the campaign, a total of 19,894 arrests have been made. Preventive action has been taken against 9,353 individuals, while 15,284 persons were verified and later released after questioning. Additionally, 851 proclaimed offenders have been arrested. Authorities reiterated that residents can share information about criminals and gangsters anonymously through the helpline. The initiative is expected to further strengthen the policing network and contribute to making Punjab a crime-free state.