The Aurangabad Bench of the Bombay High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of disturbing reports regarding the illegal sale of drugs, cigarettes, and e-cigarettes in the vicinity of schools and colleges. The issue came to the Court's attention through investigative journalism published in the June 14 and June 16, 2025 editions of the Marathi daily Dainik Sakal.

A division bench comprising Justice Ravindra V. Ghuge and Justice Y. G. Khobragade expressed deep concern over the reports, which highlighted how certain offenders are targeting young students by selling banned substances outside educational institutions.

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“Young students of an impressionable age are enticed into consumption of such drugs and cigarettes virtually opening the path towards addiction and their physical destruction,” the Bench noted.

The Court was particularly disturbed by the implications such actions could have on the health and safety of school-going children and college students. It emphasized that addiction at such a young age could cause irreversible damage to their future and contribute to the deterioration of social structures.

Suo Motu PIL Registered

Given the seriousness of the issue, the Court directed the Registrar (Judicial) to register a Suo Motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL). It also ordered the inclusion of the referenced news editions in the court record. The move signifies the Court’s intent to treat the matter with urgency and judicial seriousness.

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Senior Advocate P. R. Katneshwarkar has been appointed as Amicus Curiae in the matter and has agreed to file a formal PIL at the earliest. The Court permitted him to formally title the case as “Suo Motu PIL.”

“We record our appreciation for the Press Reporters of Dainik Sakal, who have taken up this issue,” the judges said, acknowledging the role of responsible journalism in bringing the matter to light.

Police Action Expected

The Court expressed its expectation that the Police Department would act proactively and safeguard the public, especially vulnerable students, from such criminal activities. It emphasized the need for swift and strict enforcement to deter further offenses.

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“We would also appreciate if the Police Department of this city acts in the true spirit of the Department and ensures that the citizens are protected against such activities,” the Bench stated.

The Bombay High Court’s suo motu action underscores the judiciary’s commitment to protecting the youth from the harmful influence of narcotics and unregulated tobacco products. The Court’s directions aim to curb the growing threat of substance abuse in school zones and hold the responsible parties accountable under the law.

Case Title: The Registrar (Judicial), High Court of Judicature of Bombay Bench at Aurangabad vs The State of Maharashtra and Others