The Punjab & Haryana High Court exhibited proactive judicial intervention today, taking suo moto cognizance against the backdrop of escalating drug trafficking issues in the border areas of Punjab. This legal action unfolded under the purview of a division bench led by Acting Chief Justice Ritu Bahri and Justice Aman Chaudhary, which promptly issued notices to the concerned authorities, including the states of Punjab and Haryana, as well as the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB).
The genesis of this legal intervention was a news article published in the current edition of the daily newspaper "The Pioneer" Chandigarh. The report highlighted the Border Security Force's (BSF) apprehensions regarding the escalating menace of drug smuggling. The BSF, in its communication, expressed concerns over the necessity of preventive detention of individuals suspected of involvement in drug trafficking. The force further furnished a list containing names of 75 such individuals to the Punjab Police.
The court, in its suo moto cognizance, acknowledged the gravity of the situation and deemed it imperative to scrutinize the reported details. The news item not only shed light on the concerns raised by the BSF but also presented a comprehensive overview of seizures and recoveries made in the year 2023. The items recovered included a staggering 755 kilograms of narcotics, which were reportedly being transported into India through the use of drones along the border.
In response to these developments, the court, through the division bench, directed the states of Punjab and Haryana to submit detailed status reports outlining the measures and actions being undertaken in response to the information provided by the BSF. This judicial directive reflects a commitment to ensuring accountability and a proactive approach in addressing the alarming issue of drug trafficking.
Additionally, the court extended its scrutiny to encompass the Narcotics Control Bureau, a pivotal agency in combating drug-related offenses. The NCB was also served notices and instructed to furnish status reports detailing information about individuals suffering from drug addiction in both Punjab and Haryana. This move underscores the court's recognition of the broader societal implications of drug abuse and its commitment to addressing the root causes of the issue.
The court's concern wasn't limited to the enforcement aspect alone; it delved into the preventative dimension as well. Acknowledging the magnitude of narcotics recovered, the court directed the states to provide insights into the potential steps that could be taken to raise awareness among individuals who are not yet entangled in drug addiction. The emphasis on preventive measures and public awareness reflects a holistic approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by drug trafficking.
In essence, the suo moto cognizance by the Punjab & Haryana High Court signifies a judicial commitment to safeguarding public welfare and upholding the rule of law. By actively engaging with the concerns raised by the BSF and seeking comprehensive reports from the concerned states and the NCB, the court exemplifies a proactive stance in tackling the complex issue of drug trafficking, thereby setting a precedent for robust judicial oversight in matters of societal importance.
TAGS: Division bench Acting Chief Justice Ritu Bahri Justice Aman Chaudhary Notices Punjab Haryana
