Individuals selling inhalants or solvents to minors could soon face stricter penalties. Currently, it is a misdemeanour punishable by one to three years in prison. Inhalants and solvents are liquid substances that can be inhaled, such as thinner and dendrite. The National Council has adopted a recommendation to urgently amend the Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Substance Abuse (Amendment) Act of 2018.
Under the Act, while selling inhalants or solvents to minors is a misdemeanour, selling them to adults is unregulated. The house discussed this while adopting the review report on Youth and Substance Abuse.
Tshering, chairperson of the Social and Cultural Affairs Committee said “There is a need to increase the penalties for individuals selling inhalants and solvents. Secondly, there is a need for a clear distinction between substance abusers and traffickers. And thirdly, to improve the treatment and rehabilitation services.”
According to the Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Substance Abuse Act 2018, a defendant is guilty of the illegal sale of inhalants or solvents if they sell, import, or export these substances without a license or authorisation.
According to the review report, there are no rules or regulations governing the sale of inhalants and solvents, unlike alcohol and tobacco. Sellers are not required to obtain a special license, nor are businesses obligated to make any undertaking or comply with specific regulations, as is the case for alcohol license holders.
Similarly, the committee agreed to urgently amend the Tobacco Control (Amendment) Act to address the legal age, ban the sale of e-cigarettes, and enhance offences and penalties. It also recommended reviewing and amending related laws, including the Road Safety and Transport Act 1999, to address issues related to driving under the influence of alcohol and other illicit substances.
The report, along with the recommendations, will be submitted to the relevant agencies for necessary action.
Tashi Dekar
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
