A Special NDPS Court in Gujarat has handed down seven years of rigorous imprisonment to three individuals involved in diverting pharmaceutical precursors for illicit drug production, as confirmed by a Narcotics Control Bureau official. The convicted individuals are associated with Alps Life Sciences Pvt Ltd in Sonipat, Haryana, and have also been fined Rs 1.5 lakh each. The investigation uncovered intentional falsification of manufacturing and export records, with senior company officials actively participating in the illegal activities.
The convicted individuals include Sumit Kumar, the Managing Director, Sumit Kumar, the Store In-charge, Dhanesh Chamoli, the Authorised Chief Chemist-cum-Production Manager, and the company, Alps Life Sciences itself. The case falls under Sections 9A read with 25A, 26, 29, 35, and 38 of the NDPS Act, 1985, along with relevant provisions of the NDPS (Regulation of Controlled Substances) Order, 2013. The NCB Ahmedabad Zonal Unit conducted the investigation, focusing on the diversion of pseudoephedrine, a controlled substance under the NDPS Act, 1985.
Legal proceedings against the accused and the company commenced on November 24, 2023. Despite seeking bail from various judicial bodies, including the Supreme Court of India, the accused were denied bail due to the severity of the offense, the international implications of precursor diversion, and the substantial evidence presented by the NCB. This verdict serves as a stern warning against the misuse of pharmaceutical precursors and legitimate drug manufacturing channels. It highlights the NCB’s thorough investigation, collaborative efforts across agencies, and persistent legal actions to disrupt drug supply networks.
