Sikkim Needs the NDPS Act to Combat Substance Abuse

Dear Editor,

Sikkim, despite being one of the least populated states in India, is grappling with a worsening drug problem. Border towns of Rangpo and Jorethang  have become hubs for illegal drug activities, engulfing surrounding regions like Majhitar and Bageykhola densely. Singtam, once a major center for drug abuse, is now rivalled by other towns in terms of the sale and consumption of banned substances.

While the state introduced the Sikkim Anti-Drugs Act, 2006 (SADA) and was amended again in the year 2017 and 2018, it pales in comparison to the more robust Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS). Anti-drug awareness campaigns by both government and non - government organizations have brought some hope to the families of users, but their societal impact remains minimal. Mental health programs , detoxification and rehabilitation have been implemented statewide, yet they too have shown limited success.

The escalating number of drug users is having a drastic impact on Sikkimese society. Despite the Sikkim Police's continuous efforts to apprehend drug peddlers, the provisions under SADA are weak. Offenders are often fined minimal amounts and are released on bail, with some receiving short term prison sentences. However, after their release, many return to the same illegal activities, openly continuing the drug trade.

Communities across Sikkim are deeply concerned but feel powerless in the face of this growing menace, as threats and attacks from mentally unstable drug users deter them from taking action.

To prevent Sikkim from spiraling into a drug crisis similar to Punjab's, there is an urgent need for the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS) to be implemented in the state. Without this stronger legal framework, Sikkim is at risk of further deterioration due to substance abuse.

Your’s etc,

SURESH K. LAMA,Majhitar, Pakyong District