New Delhi: The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act is the talk of the country. Its stringent provisions are being debated extensively following the arrest of Aryan Khan in the rave party cruise ship drugs case.
There are reports that the central Social Justice and Empowerment ministry may call for a review of the NDPS Act. According Hindustan Times, the ministry has recommended that possession of small quantities of drugs for personal consumption can be decriminalised.
The Department of Revenue is the nodal authority of the NDPS Act, and has asked other ministries to suggest changes to the law, if any.
Shah Rukh Khan’s son, who was arrested three weeks ago by Narcotics Control Bureau, has been charged under NDPS Act. His bail plea was rejected by an NDPS court in Mumbai.
If he is found guilty under Section 27 of the Act, Aryan Khan faces imprisonment for up to a year or a penalty of up to Rs 20,000 or both, for consumption of any narcotic drug or psychotropic substance.
In its present form, the Act does not differentiate between an addict, a recreational user or first-time user.
If an accused volunteers for rehabilitation, he or she can avail immunity of penalty or prison term.
