A Rights-Based Approach to Drugs, Drug Use, and People Who Use Drugs in India – International Drug Users Day 2024
By Simon W Beddoe, Harm Reduction Advocacy.
Today, November 1st, in countries across the globe, people with lived or living experience of drug use, families, and friends commemorate the 16th International Drug Users Day #IDUD2024 to make the case for respect dignity, and quality of life for people who use drugs. India, with its vast population and diverse social fabric, faces significant challenges related to drugs and drug use. The current approach, often characterized by criminalization and punitive measures, has proven ineffective in addressing the root causes of the problem. A more compassionate and rights-based approach is essential to mitigate the harms associated with drug use and promote the well-being of individuals.
Understanding the Current Landscape is key.
The prevailing legal framework in India, primarily governed by the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, often criminalizes both the possession and use of drugs. This punitive approach has led to widespread stigmatization, discrimination, and human rights violations against people who use drugs. Furthermore, the focus on law enforcement has diverted attention from addressing the underlying social, economic, and psychological factors that contribute to drug use.
For example, a study conducted by the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) in India found that people who use drugs are often subjected to stigma, discrimination, and violence, leading to barriers in accessing healthcare and social services.[1] This has contributed to increased vulnerability to HIV/AIDS and other infections among this population.
There is an urgent need for a shift in policy.
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment's press release on the "National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction" (NAPDDR) acknowledges the limitations of the current drug policy and emphasizes the need for a multi-pronged strategy that prioritizes prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.[2] This shift towards a more balanced approach holds promise for improving public health outcomes and promoting the well-being of people who use drugs.
Advocating a Rights-Based Approach seems to be the most viable option.
A rights-based approach to drugs and drug use recognizes the inherent dignity and worth of all individuals, regardless of their drug use status. It emphasizes the need for a comprehensive and compassionate response that prioritizes health, human rights, and social justice. Key components of this approach include:
- Decriminalization of Personal Use: The criminalization of personal drug use has proven to be counterproductive. It creates barriers to accessing healthcare and social services, exacerbates stigma, and fuels the black market. By decriminalizing personal use, India can shift its focus from punitive measures to harm reduction and treatment.
For instance, Portugal, which decriminalized the possession of small quantities of drugs in 2001, has seen a significant reduction in drug-related deaths and HIV infections.[3] This approach has allowed for greater investment in treatment and harm reduction services, leading to improved health outcomes. - Expanding Access to Treatment and Harm Reduction Services: Adequate and accessible treatment and harm reduction services are crucial for addressing the needs of people who use drugs. This includes providing evidence-based treatment options, needle exchange programs, and overdose prevention initiatives. Investing in these services not only improves the health and well-being of individuals but also reduces the public health burden associated with drug use.
The National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) in India has implemented needle exchange programs in several states to reduce the transmission of HIV among people who inject drugs. These programs provide clean needles and syringes, along with counseling and referrals to treatment services.[1] - Promoting Stigma Reduction and Human Rights: Stigma and discrimination against people who use drugs have far-reaching consequences, including social isolation, economic marginalization, and increased vulnerability to human rights abuses. By promoting stigma reduction and education, India can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals affected by drug use.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has launched campaigns to raise awareness about stigma and discrimination against people who use drugs. These campaigns highlight the importance of human rights and promote a more compassionate approach to drug use.[4] - Addressing Underlying Social Determinants of Health: Drug use is often influenced by a complex interplay of social, economic, and environmental factors. Addressing these underlying determinants of health, such as poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunities, is essential for preventing the harms associated with drugs and drug use and promoting health and rights.
India's National Action Plan on Drugs, now known as the Nasha Mukth Abhiyan (Drug-Free India Campaign), aims to address the social and economic factors that contribute to drug use. This includes providing treatment facilities, vocational training, employment opportunities, and access to education for vulnerable populations.[5]
In conclusion, a rights-based approach to drugs and drug use is essential for addressing the challenges faced by India. By prioritizing health, human rights, and social justice, in India, we can create a more compassionate and effective response to the issue of drug use. This approach will not only reduce the harms associated with drug use but also promote the well-being of individuals and communities. By adopting these measures, we can:
- Save Lives: Reduce drug-related deaths and HIV infections.
- Protect Human Rights: Ensure that people who use drugs are treated with dignity and respect.
- Improve Public Health: Reduce the burden of drug-related health issues on our healthcare system.
- Create a Just Society: Promote social inclusion and equity for all individuals.
I believe that a rights-based approach is essential for addressing the challenges faced by people who use drugs in India. It aligns with our nation's commitment to human rights and social justice. We can create a more equitable and compassionate society for all by prioritizing health, compassion, and inclusion.
It is imperative to take action and prioritize the well-being of our citizens. To build a society where everyone, regardless of their drug use status, has the opportunity to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
References:
- National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) India: https://naco.gov.in/
- Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India: https://socialjustice.gov.in/
- Portugal's Drug Policy: https://substanceabusepolicy.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13011-021-00394-7
- United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC): https://www.unodc.org/
- Nasha Mukth Abhiyan: https://nmba.dosje.gov.in/
More community should come forward to rise the voice,in this ex users forum also should join us.we have to work together instead of diffrence of opinion, Harm Reduction and total abstainence is the goal.
Very useful Harm Reduction Advocacy for Drug Users Community.
A very concise yet informative write up.
Congrats, my friend for the last 25 years, we the Ex and current Drug users give our voice for the betterment of the Drugs Users community and general public as a whole, but still the so call department of our country (india) seems blinds to the voice of our community, so now the community groups should not wait to hear our voice as enough is enough. Now we have to come forward and start challenge the system. Congratulations again buddy, your papers will be use in the coming days.