Ludhiana: For the post of constable, day one of the police recruitment rally began on an ironic note at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU).

Four of the 349 samples of candidates taken for the dope test were found positive. According to sources, "around 23,700 candidates will appear for recruitment in Ludhiana till September 11".

On day one, as many as 400 candidates were invited and 349 appeared.

Deputy commissioner of police (DCP) Dhruman Nimbale said "Out of the total of 349 candidates who came for the test, four were found positive. The candidates who tested positive will be asked to appear for another test for confirmation as at times, medication can also result in a positive test. Candidates are asked to get their test done at a government hospital and later get approval from the drug de-addiction center. If the de-addiction center says the test was positive because of medication, candidates will be given another chance after September 11."

Clearing the dope test is mandatory for candidates.

The Punjab government has taken the initiative of conducting a dope test, first time in the recruitment drive for post of police constables.