India’s home minister calls for stricter enforcement of anti-drug laws and collaborative solutions to emerging technological challenges.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has raised concerns over the increasing challenges posed by the dark web, cryptocurrency, and drones in combating drug trafficking in India. Speaking at a regional conference on Drug Trafficking and National Security in New Delhi on Saturday, Shah urged states and union territories to fully utilize the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PITNDPS) Act to dismantle the ecosystem of drug trade in the country.
Highlighting the under-utilization of the PITNDPS Act, Shah revealed that only two states have made use of its provisions, which include detaining habitual drug traffickers for up to a year and attaching their properties.
“Punjab has used it once, and Delhi has applied it in 13 cases. For all other states and union territories, the record is zero,” Shah stated. “I urge everyone to recognize that this strict law was enacted to address the severity of such heinous crimes.”
A recent survey cited by Shah revealed that approximately 7% of Indian citizens consume drugs, underscoring the importance of decisive action against traffickers.
Emerging Threats
In addition to urging stricter enforcement of existing laws, Shah pointed to the evolving technological landscape that complicates anti-drug efforts. “The use of dark web, cryptocurrency, online marketplaces, and drones continues to pose significant challenges for us,” he said.
Shah emphasized the need for technical solutions to these problems, calling for collaboration between the central government and states. “All agencies must strengthen their resolve for a drug-free India by curbing drug smuggling facilitated through the dark web, cryptocurrency, and drones,” he added.
Misconceptions About Rising Drug Use
Addressing concerns about increasing drug usage in the country, Shah clarified that the perception of rising consumption stems from heightened enforcement and successful crackdowns. “Drug use has not increased… It is just that we are acting on it and getting the results,” he explained.
The PITNDPS Act, which empowers authorities to detain repeat offenders and confiscate their assets, remains a crucial tool in the fight against drug trafficking. However, its limited application highlights the need for greater awareness and proactive measures across states.
A Call for Unified Action
Shah’s remarks underscore the urgent need for a unified and technologically advanced approach to tackling drug trafficking in India. By leveraging the provisions of the PITNDPS Act and developing solutions to emerging challenges, authorities aim to dismantle the networks enabling the illegal drug trade.
Disclaimer: This report was based on the Union Home Minister’s remarks at the conference and highlights the urgency of addressing technological and legislative gaps in combating drug trafficking.
