Supreme Court Seeks Centre, States’ Response On Time-Bound Probe In Drug Cases

The Supreme Court on Monday issued notice to the Centre and state governments on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking time-bound investigation and speedy trials in cases involving narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.

A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana issued notice on the plea filed by advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay. The matter will be heard next on September 28.

Key Demands

The petition seeks mandatory timelines for submission of Forensic Science Laboratory reports in cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, along with a Standard Operating Procedure for search, seizure and sampling in small and intermediate quantity cases. It also seeks Special Courts under Sections 36 and 36A of the NDPS Act and an expert committee for timely identification and scheduling of New Psychoactive Substances.

The plea seeks mandatory digital recording and videography of search, seizure, sampling and inventory proceedings, arguing that these measures would improve transparency and prevent acquittals arising from procedural deficiencies.

The petition seeks operationalisation of rehabilitation and wellness centres and effective implementation of Sections 39 and 64A of the NDPS Act, which provide treatment mechanisms and immunity from prosecution for certain addicts undergoing voluntary de-addiction treatment. It also seeks graded sentencing distinguishing traffickers and financiers from addicts and personal-use offenders, along with consecutive sentences in appropriate cases.

The plea seeks time-bound assessment and confiscation of properties linked to drug traffickers and financiers under the NDPS Act, Prevention of Money Laundering Act, Benami Property Act, Black Money Act and other laws.

Citing Narcotics Control Bureau data, the petition claims drug cases rose 53 per cent in 2025, with 1,48,063 cases registered and 1,240 tonnes of drugs seized. It also seeks coordinated measures by the Centre and states, along with a Law Commission report, to strengthen investigation, forensic examination, asset tracing, prosecution and rehabilitation.

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