Crime
Supreme Court Raises Alarm Over Growing Drug Menace in Punjab
The Supreme Court of India has called for stronger and coordinated action against narcotics in Punjab, warning that the human cost of drug addiction has become deeply alarming.
The Supreme Court of India on Friday expressed serious concern over the worsening drug menace in Punjab and called for a major change in the way narcotics-related issues are being addressed.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi observed that the human toll of drug addiction in the state has become extremely alarming.
During the hearing, the bench referred to a recent case involving a mother who reportedly lost all five of her sons to drug addiction, describing it as a reflection of the devastating social impact of narcotics abuse.
The court stated that the situation may require intervention at the level of the central government and stressed the need for both state and central agencies to work together with the common objective of eliminating the drug menace.
The bench also criticised law enforcement agencies for allegedly concentrating on low-level offenders for publicity while larger drug traffickers continue to evade action.
In addition, the apex court highlighted the substantial backlog of cases registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act and emphasised the need for faster judicial processes.
To address delays in trials, the court said it would facilitate the establishment of specialised NDPS courts across states to ensure quicker disposal of narcotics-related cases.
The observations come amid growing national concern over drug trafficking, addiction and the socio-economic impact of substance abuse in several regions of the country.