Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh Sunday suspended a surgeon from Ludhiana after a purported video of the latter allegedly accepting bribe from a patient’s family surfaced.

The minister announced the immediate suspension of the doctor from Ludhiana Civil Hospital after a purported video surfaced showing him accepting money from a patient’s family. A departmental probe was ordered to investigate the incident, with the minister warning that strict action will be taken against those involved in corrupt practices.

“The Punjab government maintains a zero-tolerance policy against corruption,” Dr Singh said, emphasising accountability and transparency in public service.

After holding dialogues with private psychiatrists on PAU campus, the minister told the media said that private psychiatrists, under the “Yuddh Nasheyan Viruddh” drive, will dedicate two hours daily in nursing institutes where the government has made arrangements of 2,000 beds, to treat the individuals struggling with drug addiction. He added that the psychiatrists will be given Rs 1,500 per hour for their services, ensuring their expertise is accessible to those in need. Further, every jail will have a psychiatrist and offer treatment to the drug affected inmates.

Additionally, he said that the government is also establishing a highly secure treatment centre in each of 23 districts, specifically designed for the rehabilitation of patients with severe addiction issues. He added that this state-of-the-art facility will provide a safe and controlled environment to support the recovery of serious cases, reinforcing the government’s commitment to tackling the drug menace.

The minister emphasised that the top priority is to save Punjab’s youth from the clutches of drug addiction.

By partnering with private psychiatrists and setting up secure treatment centres, the government is ensuring comprehensive care for those affected, he said. He added that the health department is working closely with experts to formulate a robust de-addiction policy, strengthening the state’s efforts to provide holistic care and urged all stakeholders to support this mission to rehabilitate and empower Punjab’s youth.