Drug users return to old habits after securing release

SHILLONG: Irked with habitual drug users who often walk out of police custody on the plea of reforming themselves only to indulge in the same activities all over again, the East Khasi Hills police are now contemplating on booking drug users under the ‘Prevention of illicit traffic in narcotics, drugs and psychotropic substances Act (PITNDPS).
East Khasi Hills SP Davis Marak said that the drug problem is very serious in the city and police are taking preventive steps in this regard even though police have confiscated large hauls of drugs in the past few months.
According to the SP, most drug users often make the plea of going for rehabilitation which the law allows. Thus, they would be released from custody.
However, many users are taking advantage of the clause and after they are released from police custody, they re-indulge in the same activity
Taking into account of the fact that drug users are taking advantage of the clause, police have discussed the matter and are contemplating whether the PITNDPS Act should be put into action against habitual drug peddlers and users.
The PITNDPS Act has scope for preventive detention even before a crime is detected against habitual drug users.
Meanwhile, the district SP also said that police have identified four sensitive areas in the city as far as drug abuse is concerned which include Madanrting, Jhalupara, Sweeper Lane, and Polo ground-Golflink areas.