Under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, it is illegal to:
“produce, manufacture, cultivate, own, sell, transfer, purchase, or consume any Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances.”

Initially, no Special Courts were established under the Act. However, an amendment in 1989 empowered the Government to create Special Courts to handle offences under the NDPS Act. These courts are presided over by a single judge, who has the authority to take cognizance of all offences covered under the Act.