The Supreme Court of India delivered a strong message against drug consumption on Monday, stating that it is “not cool” and emphasizing the widespread issue of substance abuse across various groups and communities in the country. The court’s remarks came during a hearing related to a National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe into Ankush Vipan Kapoor, who is accused of being part of a drug trafficking network that smuggled 500 kg of heroin from Pakistan into India via sea routes.
A bench comprising Justices BV Nagarathna and N Kotiswar Singh expressed their concern regarding the pervasive nature of substance abuse in India. “Though we are mindful of the contours of the plea seeking bail, we note our disquiet regarding substance abuse in India. This is hard-hitting and multifaceted and cuts across age groups and communities. Profits are being used to support terrorism and leading to violence,” the bench stated.
The court called for a united effort from parents, society, and government to combat the drug menace. It highlighted that academic pressure and family disturbances contribute to the problem, leading to long-term social and economic instability. “Peer pressure, stress from academics, and easy availability of drugs are triggers, and adolescents are also using it as emotional escapism,” the court noted.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court urged society not to demonize individuals who resort to drug use but rather to assist them in becoming better citizens. “The youth must not follow those who resort to drug abuse, and victims of substance abuse are not limited to the downtrodden but cut across economic barriers. We need not demonize those who have resorted to it but rehabilitate individuals and make them constructive citizens,” the court concluded.
