Drug Abuse

TANMOY MUKHERJI INSTITUTE OF JURIDICAL SCIENCE

Dr. Tanmoy Mukherji

Advocate

Drug Abuse-

Tanmoy Mukherji

Advocate

 

1. Meaning of Drug Abuse

Drug abuse refers to the excessive, improper, or non-medical use of drugs that adversely affects an individual’s physical health, mental health, behaviour, and social functioning. It includes the use of illegal drugs as well as misuse of legal substances like alcohol, prescription medicines, tobacco, and inhalants.

2. Commonly Abused Drugs

→Narcotic drugs – heroin, morphine, opium

→Psychotropic substances – LSD, MDMA, cocaine

→Cannabis products – ganja, charas, bhang

→Sedatives & tranquilizers – sleeping pills, benzodiazepines

→Stimulants – amphetamines, cocaine

→Alcohol & tobacco

→Prescription drugs – painkillers, cough syrups

→Inhalants – glue, whitener, petrol

3. Causes of Drug Abuse

4. Effects of Drug Abuse-

(a) Physical Effects

(b) Psychological Effects

(c) Social Effects

(d) Economic Effects

5. Drug Abuse and Crime-

6. Legal Framework in India

(a) NDPS Act, 1985

→The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985:

→Prohibits cultivation, production, possession, sale, transport, and consumption of narcotic drugs

→Provides strict punishment based on quantity (small, intermediate, commercial)

→Emphasizes treatment and rehabilitation of addicts

(b) Important Provisions

→Section 15–23: Punishment for illegal dealing

→Section 27: Punishment for consumption

→Section 64A: Immunity from prosecution for addicts volunteering for treatment.

7. Role of Government & Society-

8. Prevention of Drug Abuse

→Family support and supervision

→Education and moral values

→Counselling and mental health care

→Recreational activities for youth

→Strong legal control and policing

 

Drug abuse is a serious social evil that threatens individual health, family stability, and national development. A combined effort of law, education, healthcare, and society is essential to prevent and control drug abuse.