Visakhapatnam, February 3, 2025 – The NDPS Act, 1985, enforces strict penalties on drug offenses in Andhra Pradesh. Recently, two individuals in Alluri Sitarama Raju district were sentenced to 20 years in prison and fined ₹1 lakh each for transporting 20 kg of marijuana, while two others in Vizianagaram received 15-year sentences for illegal drug trafficking. In 2024, 45 individuals in the state faced over 10-year jail terms under this law, with the Eagle Force, led by IG A.K. Ravi Krishna, intensifying efforts against drug-related crimes.
Under the NDPS Act, possession of over 20 kg of marijuana results in 10 to 20 years of imprisonment and a minimum ₹1 lakh fine, while repeat offenders can face up to 30 years or even the death penalty. Even drug consumption alone carries 6 months to 1 year in jail, with fines up to ₹20,000. The government remains committed to its crackdown on drug trade and consumption.