In a major step towards intensifying the fight against drug trafficking, the Maharashtra Legislative Council on Monday unanimously approved a bill to amend the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA), officially bringing drug peddling and narcotics-related offences under its purview.
The amendment, which had already been cleared by the state assembly on July 9, now awaits the Governor’s assent before it becomes law.
Once enacted, the revised legislation will broaden the definition of “organised crime” to include the production, possession, sale, and transportation of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. The change aims to impose stricter bail conditions on drug offenders and grant enhanced powers to law enforcement agencies to tackle the escalating drug menace more effectively.
Minister of State for Home (Urban) Yogesh Kadam, addressing the Council, stated, “Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had assured on July 2 that drug peddlers would soon be booked under MCOCA. This amendment delivers on that commitment.”
Until now, drug offences were prosecuted solely under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. The new move signifies the state’s intent to treat large-scale drug trafficking as a serious organised crime, reflecting growing concerns over its impact on society.
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