Abstract

Drug-related crimes are a significant challenge faced by law enforcement agencies in India, affecting public health, national security, and socio-economic stability. Under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act,1985, we are practically and together able to combat drug trafficking, possession, and abuse. Yet, its implementation is frequently thwarted by procedural complications, investigative constraints, delayed judicial proceedings and insufficient inter-agency collaboration. Moreover, the proliferation of digital drug trafficking, cryptocurrencies, darknet markets, and cross-border smuggling networks have increasingly complicated enforcement's ability to effectively halt the illegal drug trade. Notwithstanding this, India is building up a considerable momentum to buttress its anti-narcotics enforcement structures. The article studies how law enforcement agencies are involved in controlling drug-related crimes in India, elaborating on the legal, operational, and systemic challenges that limit their effective implementation. It highlights the need for legal reforms for simplifying procedural requirements, removing delays in prosecution, and stronger provisions for dealing with cyber-enabled drug crimes. It highlights the significance of capacity-building initiatives, such as specialized training for law enforcement personnel, improved forensic capabilities, and increased cooperation between police, customs, and intelligence services. Using artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and digital tracking technologies could also revolutionize intelligence gathering and crime prevention. Enforcement alone will not solve the scourge of drug abuse, a multi-faceted approach, including public education campaigns, harm reduction measures and rehabilitation programmes to tackle the drivers of drug use will be needed. The article mentions that to dismantle the drug networks and reduce narcotics-related crimes, there should be swift and effective collaboration between law enforcement, the judiciary, international agencies, and civil society. Other vital steps include strengthening interstate and international cooperation, expediting NDPS cases through special courts, and a centralized criminal database.

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