Question

Which Indian law deals with drug addiction and related crime:

• A. The Opium and Dangerous Drugs Act
• B. The Central Bureau of Narcotics Act
• C. Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act
• D. National Drug Control and Rehabilitation Act

Hint:

The NDPS Act (1985) is the most comprehensive law in India regarding narcotics; remember it by the acronym NDPS.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept:

• Drug-related offenses in India are governed by a stringent special law that covers cultivation, production, possession, sale, and consumption.
• This law was enacted in 1985 to fulfill India's international treaty obligations under the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs.

Step 1: Identify the primary legislation
The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, is the comprehensive law dealing with drug abuse and trafficking in India. It prohibits the manufacture, transport, and consumption of narcotic drugs (like opium, cannabis, heroin) and psychotropic substances (like LSD, MDMA).

Step 2: Analyze the features of the NDPS Act
The Act is known for its severe penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences for commercial quantities. It also includes provisions for the forfeiture of property derived from drug trafficking and provides for the rehabilitation of addicts.

Step 3: Evaluate other options
(A) The Opium Act (1857/1878) and Dangerous Drugs Act (1930) were the old laws that were repealed and replaced by the NDPS Act. (B) The Central Bureau of Narcotics is an agency, not a comprehensive law for crimes. (D) This is a non-existent name used as a distractor.

Step 4: Final Selection
The NDPS Act is the definitive law for drug-related crimes in India.