Belthangady: The District Special Principal and Sessions Court in Mangaluru has sentenced an accused in a case related to the attempted sale of banned narcotic substance ganja, bringing closure to a case that dates back over a decade.
The case was originally registered on March 8, 2009, when the accused was apprehended while allegedly trying to sell 1.500 kg of ganja, estimated to be worth around ₹50,000. The incident took place at Rathabeedi in Ujire, within Belthangady taluk limits. Following the arrest, a case was filed at Belthangady Police Station (Crime No. 60/09) under relevant provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
Conviction after prolonged legal proceedings
After examining evidence and hearing arguments from both sides, the presiding judge Basavaraj delivered the conviction order on April 10, 2026. The sentence was formally pronounced on April 16.
The accused, T.E. Joseph (42), a resident of Charmadi, was found guilty under provisions of the NDPS Act related to possession and attempted sale of ganja.
Sentence details under NDPS Act
The court sentenced Joseph to five years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of ₹50,000 under Section 8(c) read with Section 20(b)(ii)(B) of the NDPS Act. In case of default in payment of the fine, he will have to undergo an additional two months of rigorous imprisonment.
Additionally, the court awarded one year of rigorous imprisonment under Section 32-B(f) of the Act, further reinforcing the seriousness of the offence.
Legal experts note that the NDPS Act prescribes stringent penalties to deter illegal drug trade and possession, particularly in cases involving commercial quantities or intent to distribute.
Investigation and prosecution
The case was investigated by then Police Sub-Inspector B.G. Subbapur Mutt of Belthangady Police Station. He conducted the probe, gathered evidence, and filed the charge sheet, which played a crucial role in securing the conviction.
The prosecution was led by Public Prosecutor Judith Olga Margaret Crasta, who effectively argued the case in court, presenting evidence and witness testimonies that supported the charges against the accused.
Long delay highlights judicial backlog
The case, which took nearly 17 years to reach its conclusion, reflects the delays often seen in the judicial process, especially in criminal cases involving detailed evidence and procedural requirements. Despite the prolonged timeline, the conviction is seen as a significant step in enforcing anti-narcotics laws in the region.
Authorities reiterated the importance of sustained efforts to curb drug-related activities, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas where such cases may otherwise go unnoticed.
Conclusion
The sentencing in this long-pending case underscores the strict enforcement of the NDPS Act and serves as a warning against involvement in illegal narcotics trade. While the delay in justice remains a concern, the final verdict reinforces accountability and the rule of law.