SC flags rise in drug abuse, trafficking across country

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday expressed concern over the rise in drug abuse and trafficking cases across the country.

A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and comprising justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana made the observation while issuing notice to the Centre and various state governments on a plea seeking reforms in enforcement measures under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

"It is a very concerning situation. After all, it is up to the law-and-order machinery, and it is spreading across the country," CJI Kant verbally remarked.


"All these things are very relevant. With the international border as India has, you see the Golden Crescent, you see in Burma and in Afghanistan," Justice Bagchi added.

The development took place during the hearing of a petition filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and lawyer Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay.

In his plea, Upadhyay argued that drug and substance abuse has nationwide ramifications as it gravely affects the health of youth and undermines national security through the nexus between drug trafficking and terror financing.

The plea also seeks the constitution of an expert committee to identify and schedule new psychotropic substances in a timely manner. The petitioner has also sought a standard operating procedure (SOP) for time-bound investigation and speedy trial of drug cases.