Immunity for addicts volunteering for treatment

Trigger Warning: The following content contains information on drugs and narcotics which some readers may find disturbing. 

If an addict who is charged for consuming narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances or any other crime in relation to a small quantity of that drug or substance voluntarily seeks to undergo medical treatment for de-addiction, he will not be prosecuted. The law affords immunity to such persons who are looking to rehabilitate and treat themselves¹

This treatment must be done at: 

• A hospital or institution maintained by the government 
• A hospital or institution recognised by the government
• A local authority as provided in the NDPS Act. 

It is important to note that this immunity can be withdrawn if the addict does not undergo the complete treatment for de-addiction.²

1. Section 64A, Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985. [↩]
2. Section 64A, Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985. [↩]