Chandigarh, 11 April (H.S.): The Punjab Government has introduced a new “reward policy” aimed at strengthening its crackdown on crime and gangster networks. Alongside this move, the government has also released a list of 28 most wanted criminals operating in the state.

The initiative has been rolled out under the ongoing anti-gangster campaign ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’, which focuses on dismantling organized crime networks in Punjab. As per the policy, Punjab Police personnel have been authorised to reward informants who provide credible and actionable information about wanted criminals, gangsters, or their associates.

Under the policy, financial sanction powers have been clearly defined across ranks. Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) can approve rewards up to ₹1 lakh, while Commissioners of Police, Range IGs, and DIGs can sanction up to ₹1.5 lakh. Heads of Wings, including ADGPs and Special DGPs, are empowered to approve rewards up to ₹2 lakh, and any amount exceeding ₹2 lakh will require approval from the Director General of Police (DGP).

According to Pramod Ban, the reward will be granted only after thorough verification of the information provided. He emphasized that the identity of informants will remain completely confidential and will not be disclosed at any level—whether police, public, or government. The objective, he said, is to encourage public participation while ensuring maximum safety for those who come forward.

To facilitate this, the government has activated the Anti-Gangster Helpline (93946-93946), where citizens can anonymously share information. Informants whose tips lead to the arrest of wanted criminals, proclaimed offenders, or habitual offenders will be eligible for rewards. Authorities stated that the amount will depend on the seriousness of the offence, the risk involved, and the quality of information.

The campaign has already shown significant results. Under ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’, Punjab Police has conducted over 56,000 raids at identified locations linked to gangster networks across the state. These operations, carried out in coordination with the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), have led to 19,894 arrests so far. Preventive action has been taken against 9,353 individuals, while 15,284 persons were verified and released after questioning. Additionally, 851 proclaimed offenders have been apprehended.

Officials say the reward policy is a major step toward making Punjab a gangster-free state. By involving citizens directly and ensuring their protection, the government aims to significantly weaken criminal networks and enhance public safety across the region.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH