PRADEEP BACHHAR vs THE STATE OF CHHATTISGARH

The Supreme Court modified the sentence of the appellant convicted under Section 20(b)(ii)(C) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, reducing the rigorous imprisonment from 15 years to 10 years, while retaining the fine of Rs. 1,50,000. The Court also reduced the default sentence from 3 years to 6 months, considering the financial and social conditions of the appellant, in line with the precedent set in Shahejadkhan Mahebubkhan Pathan Vs. State of Gujarat. The appeal was allowed, and the appellant was ordered to be released forthwith unless required in another case.