The National Crime Records Bureau's (NCRB) annual reports consistently draw attention, but a broader perspective, especially concerning drug-related issues, is crucial. It is imperative to develop comprehensive pan-India strategies to address the expanding influence of drug syndicates. Focusing solely on which state consumes more drugs than others oversimplifies the data. In 2022, Kerala topped the list with 26,619 FIRs under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, followed by Maharashtra (13,830) and Punjab (12,442). Kerala's emergence as a new drug hotspot should not provide comfort to other states; rather, it underscores the need for unified action.
The NCRB data reveals alarming trends, indicating a surge in
drug production, smuggling, and consumption nationwide. In 2022, 681
individuals, including 116 women, lost their lives to drug overdose in India.
Punjab recorded the highest number of such deaths at 144, followed by Rajasthan
(117) and Madhya Pradesh (74). Punjab also led in the registration of cases
related to drug possession for trafficking, with 7,433 cases, and recorded
5,009 FIRs for personal drug possession, up from 4,206 in 2021.
The NCRB data unequivocally demonstrates that the battle
against drugs is now a nationwide challenge, and Punjab likely underreports
cases. Addressing this requires coordinated inter-state plans and central
assistance. While the increase in NDPS case registrations indicates proactive
efforts by certain state governments, the dismal conviction rate is a
significant disappointment. The proliferation of the menace is fueled by
delayed or weak chargesheets and the focus on catching peddlers instead of
targeting the drug lords. Immediate and cohesive action is imperative to curb
this escalating national crisis.
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