New Delhi (Agency): Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged for stringent measures against drug peddlers, including life imprisonment and amendments to the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Speaking at a regional conference on ‘Drug smuggling and National Security’ chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the CM emphasized the need for stronger punishment for drug offenses.
Sukhu proposed that the punishment for drug offenses should be increased from five years to life imprisonment. He also called for making such offenses non-bailable, regardless of the quantity involved. Currently, offenses involving the smuggling of psychotropic substances and synthetic drugs in “intermediate” quantities are considered bailable under the NDPS Act. The CM highlighted that the smuggling of drugs, particularly ‘chitta’ (adulterated heroin), in these quantities has become a major issue for the state police.
In addition to addressing drug smuggling, Sukhu stressed the importance of tackling drug overdose cases, which often lead to fatalities. He called for necessary changes in the NDPS Act to address this matter effectively. The CM also advocated for the delegation of powers of confiscation to the states and the inclusion of a provision for a fine of Rs 5 lakh and confiscation of properties in the Act.
Furthermore, Sukhu urged the central government to establish a zonal office of the Narcotics Control Bureau in Himachal Pradesh, along with a modern hi-tech jail in Kullu district. He also emphasized the need for a modern forensic laboratory and a mobile lab in the state to expedite the investigation of drug-related cases.
The Chief Minister sought more liberal financial assistance from the central government to operate drug de-addiction centers in Himachal Pradesh. He highlighted that the state has been employing preventive detention measures and has constituted an Advisory Board to effectively combat the drug problem.
Sukhu’s proposals aim to strengthen the legal framework and enhance the state’s ability to address drug-related issues. By advocating for life imprisonment for drug peddlers and suggesting various amendments to the NDPS Act, the Chief Minister emphasizes the need for stricter measures to tackle the drug menace in Himachal Pradesh.
