Ranchi: Despite the order of the Supreme Court, a special court has not been established in Jharkhand for drug related cases. In the year 2022 itself, the Supreme Court had ordered the establishment of special courts in 12 districts of Jharkhand under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS Act). In the light of the Supreme Court order, on the instructions of the Jharkhand High Court, the state government has decided to constitute special courts under the NDPS Act in Ranchi, Chatra, Khunti, Simdega, East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, Palamu, Garhwa, Hazaribagh, Giridih, Latehar and Dhanbad districts. The proposal was made. But, till now a court has not been constituted in even a single district.
What is NDPS Act?
The law implemented in the country to set strict rules and penalties for illegal manufacturing, consumption and purchase and sale of narcotics is called Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. It is also called NDPS Act. Two types of intoxicants come under this law. Narcotic and psychotropic. The use of both these substances is prohibited in India. But, production of some narcotic and psychotropic substances is also necessary for medical needs or other purposes. Using them without medical advice can increase drug addiction. Under the Act, there is a provision to strictly monitor the production of such substances.
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There is even a provision for death penalty for drug trade
The NDPS Act has provisions for severe punishment for offenses related to narcotic and psychotropic substances and medicines. Under this, depending on the nature and seriousness of the crime, the punishment can range from one year to 20 years of imprisonment. There is also a provision for harsh punishment for repeat offenders. Under the Act, there is a provision for even death penalty in some cases.