Section 15 of NDPS Act, 1985 : Section 15: Punishment For Contravention In Relation To Poppy Straw

Explanation using Example

Imagine a farmer named Raj who has a licence to grow a limited amount of poppy for medicinal purposes. However, Raj decides to sell some of his poppy straw on the side to a local drug manufacturer without reporting the sale or obtaining the necessary permissions. This act is discovered by the authorities.

In this scenario, Raj has contravened the provisions of The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, by selling poppy straw without proper authorization. The quantity he sold determines the severity of his punishment:

• If Raj sold a small quantity, he could face up to one year of rigorous imprisonment, a fine up to ten thousand rupees, or both.
• If the quantity was more than a small quantity but less than a commercial quantity, he could face rigorous imprisonment for up to ten years and a fine up to one lakh rupees.
• Had Raj sold a commercial quantity, the minimum punishment would be ten years of rigorous imprisonment, with the possibility of extending to twenty years, and a fine of at least one lakh rupees, which could go up to two lakh rupees or more if the court finds reasons to impose a greater fine.

The court will determine the exact punishment based on the specifics of the case, including the quantity of poppy straw involved in the contravention.