T Kumar, from Chittoor in AP convicted on drug peddling charges
Bengaluru: A city court recently held a Andhra Pradesh-based man guilty of peddling drugs and sentenced him to two years’ rigorous imprisonment with a fine of Rs 20,000. State police data shows a decline in convictions in cases booked under NDPS Act in 2024 and 2025 compared to 2023. In 2023, there were 4,148 convictions, which dipped to 2,078 and 2,600 in 2024 and 2025, respectively.
Deputy commissioner of police (north) Babasab Nemagoud told TOI that following procedures like sending ganja samples to forensic science laboratory immediately after seizure and producing the remaining portion before court, recording statements from witnesses, and digital/electronic evidence to prove Kumar’s presence helped in securing the conviction. Police filed a charge-sheet against Kumar, saying he would visit Bengaluru frequently to sell ganja.
In the first five months of this year, 730 convictions were reported.
Officials said lapses in seizing contraband materials and insufficient knowledge in taking forward the case through trial are affecting conviction numbers.