Pune Police have facilitated de-addiction treatment for 12 people under Section 64A of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, combining legal action against drug supply with rehabilitation for eligible users in the city’s Zone III jurisdiction.
The initiative was carried out by Warje, Narhe, Uttamnagar and Nanded City police stations under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone III) Dr Sagar Kawade. All 12 individuals were referred to the Aatmanirbhar Social Foundation’s government-recognised de-addiction centre in Kirkatwadi, where they completed a month-long treatment programme.
Following completion of the treatment, courts discharged nine individuals, while proceedings in the remaining three cases are pending. The relief was provided under Section 64A, which allows eligible individuals involved in specified offences relating to drug consumption or possession of small quantities to receive immunity from prosecution, subject to statutory conditions and voluntary treatment at a recognised de-addiction centre.
The police station-wise outcome varied. Warje police referred three individuals, of whom one was discharged and two cases remain pending. Narhe police referred three individuals, with two discharges and one pending case. All three individuals referred by Uttamnagar police and all three referred by Nanded City police were discharged by the courts.
Police said the initiative reflects a distinction between people involved in drug consumption and those involved in the sale, distribution or trafficking of narcotics. While strict legal action against drug sellers and traffickers will continue, eligible drug users are being offered treatment, counselling and an opportunity to reintegrate into society.
Under the NDPS Act, Section 64A is intended to provide a legal route for eligible users to seek treatment instead of facing prosecution, provided the statutory requirements are met. The Pune initiative places police stations, courts and recognised treatment providers within the same process, with the final decision on discharge remaining with the courts.
The police said drug addiction affects individuals and their families and is particularly concerning among young people. The department described addiction as a health and social concern as well as a law-and-order issue, making treatment and rehabilitation part of its stated response alongside enforcement.
“Strict legal action against drug sellers and an opportunity for treatment and rehabilitation for drug users is our approach. Punitive action alone is not enough to create a drug-free society; rehabilitation is equally important,” DCP Dr Sagar Kawade said.
Police said action against those involved in the supply, sale and distribution of narcotics would continue, while eligible drug users would be encouraged to undergo treatment and pursue rehabilitation under the applicable legal provisions.
