The Jatiya Sangsad today passed the Narcotics Control (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introducing the maximum punishment of death penalty for illegal drug trading conducted through cyberspace and digital platforms. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed placed the bill in the House, where it was passed by a voice vote after lawmakers disposed of proposals for public opinion scrutiny, referral to the parliamentary standing committee, and amendments.
New Provisions and Penalties
The amendment incorporates a new provision recommended by the parliamentary committee to criminalize technology-based narcotics offences. Under the new law, any person who directly or indirectly uses cyberspace, digital devices, websites, social media, mobile applications, online platforms, electronic communication systems, or any other digital medium to purchase, sell, supply, offer, advertise, facilitate, communicate, or engage in any illegal activity involving narcotic drugs or psychoactive substances will be guilty of an offence.
The law also makes it an offence to use or attempt to use digital payment systems, e-wallets, virtual assets, or cryptocurrencies in connection with such illegal activities. It further provides that the recovery of narcotic drugs from the accused will not be mandatory to prosecute offences committed through digital platforms.
Severe Penalties and Enforcement Measures
Those convicted may face imprisonment for any term or the maximum penalty of death, along with a fine of up to Tk 20 lakh. If the offence is committed as part of an international or organized criminal network, offenders may be sentenced to imprisonment for any term, fined up to Tk 50 lakh, or both.
The law also authorizes competent courts or, where applicable, Narcotics Crime Suppression Tribunals to order the blocking, removal, seizure, confiscation, or forfeiture to the state of cyberspace resources, digital devices, digital accounts, digital payment systems, e-wallets, virtual assets, and cryptocurrencies used in such crimes.
Strengthening Enforcement and Jurisdiction
The amendment retains the jurisdiction of ordinary courts while reintroducing provisions for establishing separate Narcotics Crime Suppression Tribunals in areas particularly vulnerable to drug-related offences. It also introduces provisions empowering the Department of Narcotics Control to possess firearms and establish dog squads to strengthen enforcement against technology-driven drug crimes, particularly those committed in cyberspace.
Government's Stance and Future Actions
Speaking during the discussion on the bill, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said that no one would be spared in such cases of alleged involvement in narcotics trading, and administrative action was being taken against those found responsible. This new legislation underscores the government's commitment to combating the digital drug trade and protecting citizens from the harmful effects of narcotics.
