Thu Jul 03 12:06:42 UTC 2025: ## Summary

The Supreme Court of India has partially upheld a Calcutta High Court order penalizing the Narcotic Control Bureau (NCB) for a delay in appealing an acquittal in a drug case. While refusing to overturn the High Court’s decision, the Supreme Court reduced the fine from ₹1 lakh to ₹50,000. The court emphasized that the cost should be borne by the government, not individual officers, and questioned the NCB’s legal strategy, highlighting the importance of proper legal procedure in filing appeals. The issue stemmed from the NCB filing a government appeal without first seeking leave to appeal, as required by law.

## News Article

**Supreme Court Slaps Down NCB Over Appeal Delay, Reduces Fine to ₹50,000**

**New Delhi, July 3, 2025** – The Supreme Court today ruled against the Narcotic Control Bureau (NCB) regarding a delayed appeal in a drug case, upholding a prior ruling by the Calcutta High Court. While the apex court reduced the initial fine of ₹1 lakh to ₹50,000, it firmly held the NCB accountable for procedural lapses in filing the appeal.

The case originated from an acquittal verdict by a special NDPS court in Barasat. The Calcutta High Court had previously penalized the NCB for failing to apply for leave to appeal under Section 378(3) of the Code of Criminal Procedure before filing a government appeal.

During today’s hearing, a bench of Justices M.M. Sundresh and K. Vinod Chandran made it clear that the financial penalty should be borne by the government, not individual NCB officers. “The compliance is to be made… by the petitioner,” the court stated.

The Supreme Court also sharply questioned the NCB’s legal team’s approach. “If they don’t come to you, you should know what to do,” the bench remarked, implying a lack of initiative in ensuring proper legal procedures were followed.

The decision highlights the importance of adhering to legal protocol when filing appeals. The court’s ruling serves as a reminder to government agencies to ensure their legal strategies are sound and compliant with existing laws.

Read More