Drug Laws and Emerging Challenges in India: A Critical Review

Abstract

India's drug laws have undergone significant transformations over the years, from colonial regulation of opium trade to the post-independence criminalization of narcotics. The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act) is the cornerstone of India’s drug control regime. While these laws are designed to combat drug abuse and trafficking, they have given rise to numerous challenges. This research article critically examines the evolution of drug laws in India, their enforcement mechanisms, and the emerging challenges in contemporary drug control, including issues related to decriminalization, rehabilitation, and the growing narcotic trade. It proposes a holistic approach that balances criminal justice with public health strategies to address the emerging concerns in drug law enforcement.