Maharashtra Passes Bill To Bring Drug Crimes Under MCOCA

In a decisive move to combat the growing menace of drug trafficking in Maharashtra, the state government has passed amendments to the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA), 2025. The bill was unanimously approved by both Houses of the Legislature on Monday.

Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Yogesh Kadam, presented the bill in the Legislative Council and emphasized its importance in taking strict action against organized crime syndicates involved in drug-related offenses.

“This is not merely a technical amendment to the law, but a step towards fulfilling our responsibility of protecting society,” Kadam said. “We are committed to ensuring that the youth do not fall into the trap of narcotics. This amendment will empower authorities to act firmly against organized criminal networks operating in the drug trade.”

Key Highlights of the Amendment:

The revised MCOCA law will now define drug-related crimes as "organized crime."

This enables strict legal action under MCOCA in cases involving narcotics, in addition to the provisions of the NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) Act.

In the last five years, over 73,000 drug-related cases have been registered in Maharashtra, and narcotics worth over ₹10,000 crore have been seized.

With these changes, authorities will be able to impose tougher restrictions on gangs involved in the production, transportation, distribution, and smuggling of narcotic substances. The law aims to ensure more effective enforcement and deterrence.

Minister Kadam expressed serious concern over the growing threat posed by drug abuse to the health of the youth and the overall social structure. “The government is fully alert and committed to enforcing the law strictly. I sincerely thank all members of the House for unanimously supporting this crucial legislation in the fight against narcotics,” he added.