Introduction:

The Punjab & Haryana High Court, through a division bench of Acting Chief Justice Ritu Bahri and Justice Aman Chaudhary, has taken suo moto cognizance against drug trafficking prevalent in the border areas of Punjab. This proactive step by the Court follows a news report published in “The Pioneer” Chandigarh, highlighting concerns raised by the Border Security Force (BSF) regarding preventive detention of smugglers involved in drug trafficking.

The Court’s suo moto action was triggered by the report disclosing the BSF’s apprehensions about drug smuggling activities and its plea for the preventive detention of 75 individuals suspected of drug trafficking. The report detailed significant seizures of narcotics, rifles, and pistols, particularly mentioning the recovery of 755 Kg. of narcotics carried into India via drones along the border in the year 2023.

The Court, perturbed by the magnitude of narcotic seizures, has issued notices to the States of Punjab and Haryana, as well as the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB). The bench seeks status reports from both states, specifically concerning the steps initiated by the BSF’s report. Additionally, the NCB is directed to provide status reports detailing the situation of drug addiction in both Punjab and Haryana.

States’ Accountability: Representatives from Punjab and Haryana, including Anu Pal, Senior Deputy Advocate General of Punjab, and Deepak Balyan, learned Additional Advocate General of Haryana, are expected to present the actions taken by their respective states in response to the BSF’s report. The Court seeks insights into preventive measures and strategies to raise awareness among individuals not yet affected by drug addiction.

Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Report: The NCB is tasked with submitting comprehensive status reports outlining the extent of drug addiction prevalent in Punjab and Haryana. The Court seeks insights into preventive strategies to educate and protect individuals from falling prey to the drug menace.

The Punjab & Haryana High Court’s suo moto cognizance reflects its concern and commitment to address the rising menace of drug trafficking in border areas. The Court’s proactive approach, evident through issuing notices and seeking detailed reports, aims to encourage accountability and effective preventive measures by the concerned authorities.