Combating Adolescent Drug Abuse: A Judicial and Policy Perspective

Export Objective: This study examines India’s legal framework addressing drug abuse and trafficking, focusing on key constitutional provisions, the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS), and recent judicial interventions. It highlights the Supreme Court ruling in Ankush Vipan Kapoor v. National Investigation Agency, which underscores the need for urgent action against juvenile drug abuse and trafficking. Data Source: The research relies on primary legal sources, including constitutional provisions, the NDPS Act, and Supreme Court judgments, along with secondary sources such as legal commentaries, reports, and policy documents. Data were drawn from official reports by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (including the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction), judicial documents, national surveys on substance use, and scholarly assessments such as Dr. Umashankar Molanguri’s 2025 report on deaddiction services. Review Methods: A doctrinal legal research approach is adopted, analyzing statutes, case laws, and judicial interpretations. The study also incorporates thematic analysis to identify policy gaps and assess the effectiveness of existing legal measures. International models, including Portugal’s decriminalization policy and Canada’s regulatory framework, were examined to contextualize India’s current system and suggest reform pathways. Result and Conclusion While India has a strong legal framework, enforcement challenges persist, including delays in prosecution, inadequate rehabilitation facilities, and gaps in policy coordination. The Supreme Court ruling highlights the need for a multifaceted strategy, integrating legal reforms, public awareness, community engagement, and international collaboration to combat drug addiction effectively.