• The Central Government recently convened an inter-departmental meeting to re-evaluate the NDPS Act. Based on the recommendations of the MSJE, the Centre may amend the NDPS Act to decriminalise the possession and consumption of small quantities of drugs.
  • Under the NDPS, any person who consumes or possesses a narcotic substance can be sentenced to imprisonment and the imposition of fines. Despite over 35 years of the Act being in force, the number of people dependent on drugs has exponentially increased over the past few years.
  • If the law is amended, substance use will be tackled as a public health concern. This will promote alternative strategies such as de-addiction and rehabilitation.