Punjab govt grants over 10,000 drug addicts immunity from prosecution under NDPS Act

Chandigarh: More than 10,000 drug addicts in Punjab have been granted immunity from prosecution under Section 64A of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act as part of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government's anti-drug campaign, ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’.

According to an official statement issued on Thursday, 10,656 people have been allowed to undergo treatment and rehabilitation instead of facing prosecution for drug consumption or possession of small quantities meant for personal use.

The campaign, launched on March 1, 2025, combines strict action against drug traffickers with rehabilitation for individuals struggling with addiction.

Between March 1, 2025, and July 6, 2026, Punjab Police registered 51,516 cases under the NDPS Act and arrested 67,519 people. During the same period, more than 10,000 addicts were diverted to government-run de-addiction and rehabilitation centres, reflecting the state's dual approach of enforcement and treatment.

Section 64A of the NDPS Act grants immunity from prosecution to drug addicts who voluntarily seek de-addiction treatment, allowing them to avoid punishment under the law.

Officials said each beneficiary undergoes a medical assessment before receiving an individualised treatment plan, which may include detoxification, psychiatric care, counselling, behavioural therapy and relapse prevention.

Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said the fight against drugs is not limited to arresting peddlers but also involves giving those trapped in addiction an opportunity to recover.

"We remain committed to supporting every effort that combines strict enforcement with compassion to ensure the state gets rid of drug addiction as early as possible for the better future of our youth," he said.

Additional DGP of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force Nilabh Kishore said it is important to distinguish between drug traffickers and victims of addiction.

He said timely treatment and rehabilitation can prevent addicts from turning to crime and help them reintegrate into society.

The Punjab government's anti-drug strategy stands on two pillars: enforcement against drug traffickers and a compassionate, evidence-based approach towards victims of addiction. While law enforcement agencies continue to intensify action against hardcore smugglers and peddlers, equal emphasis is being placed on identifying drug addicts to facilitate their rehabilitation and help them reintegrate with their families, the statement said.

PTI