INTRODUCTION: – In this digital generation where there are many facilities which can get availed by common people, making them more modern and resourceful rather than the past. Through generation to generation, it is getting passed and it will continue to do so, the increment will get high. But through this advancement provided new avenues for illegal activities. This blog will explores through the area of narcotics, illegal substance of black market in relation to the telegram app, which known for its encryption and privacy feature and policy.

BACKGROUND: – The popularity of telegram is for those strong features, an attractive platform for the black market for legitimate users and skilled fraudsters. They exploit the platform to create groups, disseminate false information, and manipulate the victims. They have connections to access the drugs such as, Marijuana, Ecstasy or MDMA, Cocaine, Methamphetamines, Psychedelics and many more etc.

KEY ASPECTS: – The known aspects of regarding this matter, which includes-
• Anonymity.
• This app includes dark web.
• Encrypted communication.
• Telegram allows creation of groups, or channels for widespread distribution of illegal substances etc.

• PROVISION: – In India there are strong preventive in nature provision, which includes-
  • Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act), under this, there are-
  a) Section 8 prohibits the cultivation of drugs.
  b) Also, there are some applicable sections such as section 20, section 21, and section 27A etc.
  • There are also the Prevention of Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (1988).

CASE LAW: – Mohd Aslam Chicko v. NCB (2023), this case discussed about the bank transactions qua the applicant in connection with drug trafficking and the involvement in illicit activities. Also, there is case Saurav Kumar v. The State of Bihar (2024), discussed about involvement of illicit business of drag trafficking and states it’s a cognizable and non-bailable.
Also, The CEO of Telegram Mr. Durov also got arrested for this matter and other more offences.

CONCLUSION: – The use of telegram for the black market of illegal substances poses a significant challenge for law enforcement authorities. The app’s is beneficial but combating with the disadvantages of this app is the point to take up. Our legal team of Online Legal Query is here for any kind help, just to felicitate the people and can give the probable assistance.