Regular awareness campaigns and seminars prove futile

Kerala recorded a huge increase in narcotics cases compared to other states. In the last four years, 87,101 cases of drug abuse have been registered. The total number of cases registered in the previous four years was only 37,228.

Of the 63 murder cases in Kerala in the first two months of 2025, 30 were drug-related. Despite regular awareness campaigns and seminars, the prevalence of drug abuse is only increasing. The crime continuing with impunity is largely blamed for the fact that only middlemen or carriers are arrested in such cases, and the investigation never gets extended to the real culprits or brains behind the cabal.

The current conviction rate is only higher in cases where small quantities of drugs are seized. The conviction rate in cases where small quantities of drugs are seized is 98 per cent. These are mostly cases where the accused would roam free after paying fines in court. For the accused involved in such crimes, paying a fine is as simple as waking up in the morning, as they often end up in the same shenanigans with a renewed interest. In cases where medium and large quantities of drugs are seized, cases are being thwarted due to witness defections, court proceedings dragging on, and a lack of evidence.

Cases getting prolonged for years are one of the crucial factors that result in the repetition of narcotics cases. In order to give timely punishment in such cases, special courts should be set up in all districts of the state to deal with narcotics cases. At present, there are only special courts functioning under the Narcotics Act in Vadakara, Kozhikode and Purappuzha, Idukki. In this situation, the High Court has sought an explanation from the Central and State governments regarding the need to set up special courts to deal with narcotics cases in all districts of the state. The action of the bench comprising Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar and Justice C. Jayachandran was based on the recommendation of the High Court's administrative division.

Although the High Court Registry had earlier written to the governments regarding this, no response was received. Considering the huge increase in drug cases in Kerala, the Central Government should provide financial assistance to set up special courts to deal with drug cases. The State Government should also be ready to hand over buildings to set up the courts and provide other basic facilities. The spread of drug abuse cannot be stopped by awareness alone. It should also be ensured that appropriate punishment is meted out promptly. Therefore, special courts must be set up in all judicial districts to deal with narcotics cases.