DURAND DIDIER vs CHIEF SECRETARY, UNION TERRITORY OF GOA

The Supreme Court upheld the conviction of the appellant under Sections 21, 20(b)(ii), and 18 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, affirming that the prosecution established possession of prohibited drugs. The Court ruled that the burden of proof regarding the quantity for personal consumption lies with the accused, and the evidence from pancha witnesses was deemed admissible despite their local status. The appeal was dismissed, and the sentence of 10 years rigorous imprisonment and a fine was confirmed, with a modification of the default sentence to six months.