MOHAN LAL vs STATE OF RAJASTHAN

The Supreme Court upheld the conviction of Mohan Lal under Section 18 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, and Sections 457 and 380 of the Indian Penal Code, affirming a sentence of 10 years rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs. 1 lakh. The Court found that the prosecution established the theft of opium from the malkhana, supported by the accused's confession and recovery of the stolen drugs. The concurrent sentences imposed by the trial court were deemed appropriate given the gravity of the offences committed.