Court Denies Bail in Major Drug Trafficking Case
In a firm stand against the drug trade plaguing the state, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has denied bail to Sandeep Shah, described as a key player in an international heroin trafficking network allegedly operated from within Indian jails. The court ruled that his release would be “a bane for society,” especially amidst Himachal’s escalating battle against narcotics.
Justice Sandeep Sharma, in his December 9 order, highlighted Shah’s dangerous pattern of criminal activity and evasion. Arrested on April 21, 2025, Shah is accused of masterminding sophisticated supply chains pumping heroin—locally known as chitta—into Shimla. His methods reportedly exploited modern technology, using virtual phone numbers, encrypted messaging, and QR code-based UPI payments to coordinate with couriers who shipped contraband from Delhi.
The case first unraveled in April 2024 with the arrest of Veer Singh, who was caught with nearly 8 grams of heroin near the Lalpani Bus Stop. Police investigations into financial trails and WhatsApp communications allegedly led them to Shah, uncovering his connections to a Delhi-based African supplier.
The court noted a deeply concerning history: Shah faces five pending cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and one under the Indian Penal Code. He has repeatedly been declared a “proclaimed offender” for absconding during trials since 2021, demonstrating a blatant disregard for the legal system.
Justice Sharma observed that Shah’s conduct shows a clear and ongoing commitment to narcotics trafficking. With the Supreme Court directing a swift conclusion to the trial within a year, the court found no grounds for granting bail, emphasizing the serious threat he poses to a society already struggling to protect its youth from the devastating drug menace.
