Organise refresher course on NDPS Act, HC tells TJA

Agartala: Tripura HC on Friday directed Tripura Judicial Academy (TJA) to organise a refresher programme on investigation and trial under the NDPS Act, 1985 involving special judges, prosecutors of trial courts and police officers to ensure efficient prosecution. While acquitting Bangladesh national Saha Alam in a cross-border drug smuggling case, Justice S Datta Purkayastha observed significant lapses in the prosecution. The evidence produced by the deputy director of the State Forensic Science Laboratory and investigating police officer and the documents presented before the court revealed gaps in proving the charge under the NDPS Act. There was no clarity about where the seized items were kept from the time of seizure until September 13, 2022. This failure to maintain the chain of custody weakened the case, as it could not be conclusively proven that the seized items were the same as those sent for forensic testing, the court observed.The court expressed concern over how the serious case of cross-border drug trafficking was handled by the police, prosecution and judiciary. The trial judge was advised to be more diligent right from the stage of framing charges and to have a clear understanding of the evidence on record. The HC acquitted Alam of charges under Section 20(b)(ii)(B) of the NDPS Act while affirming his conviction under the Passport (Entry into India) Act.

Murder attempt charge rightly invoked: Prosecution to court

Pune Rural police's charge of attempted murder against Manorama Khedkar, mother of probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar, was supported by evidence of intent and preparation. Manorama, now in judicial custody, allegedly brandished a pistol at farmers during a land dispute. Her bail plea has been reserved till Friday. The prosecution argued she could influence witnesses if granted bail.

Outsiders, Observers, and Crossing Borders

In an interview, the author discussed her new novella 'Rosarita', which reflects the intriguing cultural ties between India and Mexico and delves into gaps within familial relationships. She shared her writing process, influences, and how her multicultural background and experiences shaped her narratives over her decades-long career.

El Chapo's son faces trial: Guzman Lopez pleads not guilty to drug trafficking charges

Joaquin Guzman Lopez, son of ex-Sinaloa cartel leader El Chapo, pleaded not guilty to multiple charges linked to major drug operations. Held without bail, he faces the death penalty if convicted. The arrest, reportedly directed by Washington, also led to the capture of cartel co-founder Ismael Zambada Garcia, who also pleaded not guilty.