“Under the Influence of Law: Decoding the NDPS Act and Its Impact”
The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act), stands as India’s central legislation to combat the menace of drug abuse and illicit trafficking. Enacted to fulfill India’s obligations under international treaties like the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, the Act reflects a strict, zero-tolerance approach to drug-related offenses. Over the years, it has shaped both the legal landscape and societal perception around drug consumption, possession, and trade. At its core, the NDPS Act criminalizes the production, manufacture, possession, sale, purchase, transport, and consumption of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. The law is stringent and comes with harsh punishments, including non-bailable offenses, mandatory minimum sentences, and limited scope for bail. For instance, possession of commercial quantities of banned substances can lead to a minimum of 10 years of imprisonment,…
