Srinagar: The J&K High Court on Tuesday directed all courts to deal with drug traffickers/peddlers strictly and come down “hard” on the crime. The court said that the ever-increasing menace of drug trafficking, if not checked, has the potential of not only seriously destroying public health, but also the health of the nation.
The court recorded that the cost of drug abuse is enormous and poses severe threat to the very fabric of society.
Justice Ali Mohammad Magrey while dismissing a review petition of a drug peddler recorded that it is to be borne in mind that in murder cases the accused commit murder of one or two persons only, while those who are dealing in drugs are instrumental in causing death or inflicting death blow to a number of vulnerable innocent youths.
“Such persons are a hazard to the society and they even if released temporarily, in all probability, are likely to continue their nefarious activities of trafficking or dealing in intoxicants clandestinely,” Justice Magrey said.
In this backdrop, Justice Magrey said that the courts while dealing with these matters are required to have due regard to the harmful socio-economic consequences as well as the health hazards which accompany the menace of trafficking illegally dangerous drugs, and ensure implementation of the law in the same spirit with which it has been enacted by the Parliament.
While directing the Principal district and sessions judge, Bandipora, to proceed in the case, the court noted that the menace of drug addiction has far reaching consequences for those associated with drug addicted individuals.
“Families suffer due to the cultural and social factors of drug behaviour, including their own understanding of the disease process and the addict’s behaviour due to drug abuse, draining of family resources, shrinking from responsibilities, sickness and dysfunctional relationships, distortion of interpersonal family relationships, violence and death faced as a consequence of drug abuse,” Justice Magray said.

NUSRAT SIDIQ