New Delhi: Drug trafficking in India has become a matter of serious concern, with the Supreme Court observing that the problem is spreading across the country. Hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking reforms in the NDPS Act, the Court issued notices to the Centre and State governments and sought their responses. The petition calls for stronger enforcement measures, faster investigations, timely forensic reports, and stricter action against drug traffickers.
NDPS Act Reform Plea: Supreme Court Raises Concern Over Growing Drug Trafficking
A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V Mohana expressed concern over the increasing number of drug abuse and trafficking cases across India. The Court observed that the issue is becoming widespread and poses a challenge for law enforcement agencies. The judges noted that drug trafficking is no longer limited to specific regions and is affecting many parts of the country.
Details of the NDPS Act Reform Plea
The petition was filed by BJP leader and advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay. According to the plea, drug abuse is harming the health of young people and creating serious social problems. The petitioner also argued that drug trafficking networks can threaten national security through links with organized crime and terror financing.
NDPS Act Reform Plea: Key Reforms Sought
The petition has requested several reforms to strengthen India’s anti-drug framework. These include:
- Mandatory timelines for submission of Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) reports in NDPS cases.
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for search, seizure, and sampling of narcotic substances.
- Time-bound investigation and speedy trial of drug-related cases.
- Creation of special courts for NDPS matters.
- Confiscation of properties owned by drug traffickers, financiers, and their families.
- Formation of an expert committee to identify new psychotropic substances and update regulations.
Court Highlights Cross-Border Drug Threat
During the hearing, Justice Joymalya Bagchi pointed to the challenge of cross-border drug trafficking. The Bench noted that India’s geographical location makes it vulnerable to trafficking routes linked to regions such as the Golden Crescent, which has historically been associated with illegal narcotics trade.
Why NDPS Act Reforms Are Being Discussed
The petition claims that existing enforcement systems often face delays in forensic testing, investigations, and trials. It argues that a uniform national framework could help improve conviction rates and make anti-drug operations more effective. Recent concerns about rising drug-related cases have also increased calls for stronger enforcement measures.
What Is the NDPS Act
The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985 is India’s primary law for controlling and regulating narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
The law provides penalties for drug production, possession, trafficking, and related offences, while also enabling action against properties linked to illegal drug trade.
