What Led to the 20-Year Sentence of a Drug Peddler in Bhubaneswar?
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Synopsis
In a significant ruling, a Bhubaneswar court has sentenced a drug peddler to 20 years in prison for illegal drug trade. This case highlights the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in Odisha, showcasing the efforts of law enforcement in curbing such activities.
Key Takeaways
- 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for drug peddler.
- Seizure of 1,100 grams of brown sugar worth over Rs 1 crore.
- Accused was operating from a rented house in Bhubaneswar.
- Significant action by the Odisha Crime Branch.
- This case is part of a larger effort to combat drug trafficking in Odisha.
Bhubaneswar, Sep 11 (NationPress) A court in Bhubaneswar has sentenced a 39-year-old individual involved in drug trafficking to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for his role in the possession and illicit trade of banned substances. The convict, known as Chittaranjan Sahoo or Madhu, hails from Dinabandhpur, located under the jurisdiction of Sadar Police Station in Dhenkanal district.
The incident occurred on May 20, 2023, when Sahoo was found dealing with illicit brown sugar/heroin at his rented accommodation in Unit-VIII, Bhubaneswar. A squad from the Special Task Force of the Odisha Crime Branch executed a raid and apprehended him at the scene.
Notably, Sahoo, who operated a vehicle workshop, had been residing in a government quarter assigned to a police constable since 2021. During the raid, the STF discovered and confiscated a substantial quantity of brown sugar weighing 1,100 grams, valued at over Rs 1 crore, along with various incriminating materials, as stated by Special Public Prosecutor R.R. Brahma.
Following a thorough investigation, the STF filed charges against Sahoo under sections 21(C) and 29 of the NDPS Act, 1985.
The prosecution presented a total of 14 witnesses and submitted 28 pertinent documents during the trial.
The Additional Sessions Judge of Bhubaneswar, Bandana Kar, found Sahoo guilty and sentenced him to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for both offenses under sections 21(C) and 29 of the NDPS Act, 1985, along with a fine of Rs 1 lakh for each count. Should he fail to pay the fines, he will incur an additional year of rigorous imprisonment.
Moreover, sources from the STF indicated that this marks the fourth drug-related case in Odisha where the defendant has received the maximum sentence of 20 years under the NDPS Act, 1985. The seized brown sugar has already been destroyed in accordance with the court's directive.
Point of View
This sentencing serves as a reminder of the escalating drug crisis in India. The rigorous action taken by law enforcement reflects the commitment to fighting drug trafficking, a significant issue affecting communities across the nation. The NDPS Act's strict penalties are necessary to deter such criminal activities and protect society.
NationPress
13/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Chittaranjan Sahoo convicted of?
Chittaranjan Sahoo was convicted for possession and illegal trade of contraband drugs, specifically brown sugar/heroin.
What was the sentence given to Sahoo?
He was sentenced to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment and fined Rs 1 lakh for each of the two offenses.
How much contraband was seized during the raid?
The raid resulted in the seizure of 1,100 grams of brown sugar, valued at over Rs 1 crore.
What is the NDPS Act?
The NDPS Act, or Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, is a law in India that regulates the operations related to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
How many witnesses were examined during the trial?
The prosecution examined a total of 14 witnesses during the trial.
