Mumbai: In a major move aimed at curbing the rising involvement of minors in drug-related crimes, the Maharashtra government is considering lowering the age of criminal responsibility for drug peddling to 16 years. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis made the announcement in the State Assembly on Monday, during a discussion on increasing incidents of drug trafficking across the state.
CM Fadnavis On Misuse Of Minors By Drug Syndicates
Fadnavis said the government is consulting with the Centre to explore possible amendments to existing laws that would prevent the misuse of juveniles by drug syndicates. “We are aware that minors are being increasingly used in drug networks due to the loopholes in existing legal provisions. If needed, we will push for changes in law,” he said.
The Chief Minister also revealed that a standard operating procedure (SOP) is being prepared for the deportation of foreign nationals found involved in drug trafficking. “Many foreign nationals, especially Nigerians, are found committing minor offenses to delay their deportation. This tactic complicates their legal status and hampers justice delivery,” he noted.
The issue was raised through a calling-attention motion by UBT Sena MLA Varun Sardesai, who highlighted rampant drug peddling in slum clusters of Bandra East, including Behrampada, Golibar, Bharat Nagar, and Navpada. Sardesai accused the police of hesitating to enter these congested areas and of showing leniency toward cases involving minors.
Special Police Drive To Curb Drug Menace In Bandra East Slums
In response, Fadnavis assured the House that a focused police crackdown would soon be launched in the identified hotspots. “A special drive will be carried out in Behrampada, Navpada, Golibar and Bharat Nagar to address this issue with urgency,” he stated.
Adding further teeth to the government’s anti-drug initiative, the Maharashtra Legislative Council on Monday unanimously passed an amendment to the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). The amendment brings all narcotics and psychotropic substance-related offences under the purview of “organised crime.”
Once signed by the Governor, the amended law will make offences like manufacturing, selling, possessing, transporting, or distributing narcotic drugs non-bailable and more stringently punishable under MCOCA. Authorities believe this will significantly tighten the legal framework and make it harder for drug cartels to operate in the state.
The developments mark a tougher stance by the state government in tackling the drug menace, especially in vulnerable urban zones and among minors.
