DISCLAIMER & CONFIRMATION

Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985

The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS Act), 1985 is a law enacted by the Government of India to control and regulate operations relating to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. It prohibits the production, manufacture, possession, sale, purchase, transport, and consumption of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, except for medical and scientific purposes under strict licensing.

The Act provides for stringent punishments, including rigorous imprisonment and heavy fines, especially for offenses involving commercial quantities of drugs. It also empowers law enforcement agencies to conduct searches, seizures, and arrests without a warrant in certain cases.

Key Highlights Include:

• No provision for bail in certain serious offenses.
• Presumption of guilt in cases of possession unless proven otherwise.
• Special courts and fast-track trials for drug-related offenses.

Despite its strictness, the Act has been criticized for not adequately distinguishing between drug users and traffickers, leading to calls for reform and a more rehabilitative approach for addicts.