Bigger sharks not being caught: CJI raises alarm over Punjab drug menace

The bench also comprising Justice Joymalya Bagchi made the comments as it took up a suo motu case for creation of exclusive courts across the country for faster disposal of trials under special statutes like the UAPA and the NDPS Act.

The CJI said while police nab small-level peddlers for publicity, it fails to catch the “bigger sharks” involved. He said, “Today, I don’t want to comment on your police functioning. They need to be sensitised. Whom they are picking up and whom they are letting off — it’s known to everyone. So please do something…”

Expressing alarm on the increase in cases, the CJI  said: “It’s a situation which requires to be revisited by all stakeholders. From judicial side, I will ensure that all High Courts provide full support … These bigger sharks that are involved, instead of small peddlers, we need to catch hold. Bigger sharks, as particularly influential people are involved. Otherwise, the situation is going out of hand.”

As a judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, CJI Kant had passed several orders to tackle the menace. The CJI recalled Friday for his intervention, he had received “threats” from some “nasty people”.

“I have suffered also. Lots of threats and all these things were given by the nasty people … but of course, I did not fear and you know my orders there,” the CJI told the state counsel.

CJI Kant said, “The problem is your police is more keen on getting publicity … They catch hold of a small villager, poor boy, get him photographed and come in the newspaper. As if you have done a very commendable job. I have dealt with that case in HC, I know very well. Who are operating and how these things are taking place. Why don’t you go to the root of the matter? You are picking up people when something comes in the market. How is it reaching there? Ask your people, they will tell you … These things are known to your agency.”