Bombay High Court Calls for Mental Health Treatment for All Accused Battling Alcohol, Drug Addiction

The Bombay High Court has called for psychiatric treatment for those accused of crimes, suspected of being addicted to some intoxicant.

The Court made this decision while dealing with the bail petition of a retired CRPF soldier, accused of beating his wife to death in a trivial matter. During the investigation, it was found that the reason for the quarrel was his addiction to liquor.

The Court emphasised a sympathetic approach, noting, with reference to the World Health Organization, that such addictions can create irresistible impulses leading to violence. It further highlighted the importance of providing treatment and addressing the impact of addiction on family members.

[Pramod Wamanrao Dhule v The State of Maharashtra]