Maharashtra Adds Drug Peddling Under MCOCA Act

Maharashtra Brings Drug Peddling Under MCOCA Act

Why in the News ?

The Maharashtra Legislative Council has passed a Bill amending MCOCA to include drug peddling and narcotics offences as organised crime. This move aims to impose stricter penalties, deny easy bail, and tighten enforcement against the escalating drug menace in the state.

MCOCA Expanded to Cover Drug Offences:

• The Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) has been amended to include drug peddling and narcotics-related crimes, recognizing them as activities of organised crime syndicates.
• The Legislative Council passed the Bill shortly after its passage in the Assembly on July 9.
• Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam said this was necessary as drug crimes are worsening, contributing to the escalating drug menace in Maharashtra.
• Once the Governor gives assent, drug-related offences will be officially classified as organised crime.
• The amendment makes it tougher for accused drug peddlers to obtain bail.

Future Steps and Government Strategy

• CM Devendra Fadnavis mentioned the government may lower the juvenile age to 16 for drug offences, similar to certain rape cases.
• Authorities may also hold adults accountable for minors’ involvement in drug crimes.
• Shiv Sena (UBT) raised concerns about foreign nationals involved in peddling—CM assured SOPs are being developed to ensure their deportation.
• The State aims to send a strong deterrent message to those operating drug cartels and syndicates, which are increasingly functioning as organised crime syndicates.
• This step aligns with national efforts to tackle substance abuse and organised drug networks, potentially paving the way for more comprehensive reforms like the proposed Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita to address the escalating drug menace.