At least 80 people in Hyderabad were identified to have consumed cocaine, but cases were not registered against any one except two since they opted for treatment at de-addiction centres.
This exemption is permitted under the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act 1985, but only once. Officials said cases are registered only when one relapses after coming out of the de-addiction centre.
According to Section 27 of NDPS Act, cocaine consumption is punishable with rigorous imprisonment for a term up to one year, or fine up to ₹20,000, or both. However, section 64(A) of the Act states that addicts shall not be liable for prosecution under Section 27 if they voluntarily undergo de-addiction treatment at a hospital or an institution maintained or recognised by the government or a local authority.
Barring two who absconded, all the cocaine users identified by Excise department officials have sought immunity from Section 27 and enrolled themselves in de-addiction centres. “After identifying the consumers, either excise department’s constables go to their homes to serve notices or they are asked over phone to visit the department’s office in Nampally. Since they become cautious after their supplier/ peddler gets caught, they lock their homes and lie low. When we call them, they plead for a meeting in our office,” sources said.
N. Anji Reddy, Assistant Excise superintendent of Enforcement Wing (Hyderabad), said consumers then submit an application stating that they will undergo treatment at de-addiction centres.
“They have to submit a certificate issued by de-addiction centres, recognised by government, after treatment ends. If we get evidence that they consumed drugs or psychotropic substances again, we file cases against such people,” Mr. Anji Reddy said.
The department officials and constables will start the procedure to identify the consumers who bought cocaine from the three accused caught on Sunday evening in Golconda limits.