New NDPS rules mandate licensing for de-addiction centres in J&K

By Mansoor Peer
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15 Apr 2026

Srinagar, Apr 14: In a move to streamline drug de-addiction services amid rising substance abuse concerns, the Jammu and Kashmir government has notified rules under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act to regulate the establishment and functioning of rehabilitation centres across the Union Territory.

The J&K Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Counselling and Rehabilitation Centres Rules, 2026, notified on April 2 under S.O. 91, have been framed under the NDPS Act, 1985.

As per the new rules, all de-addiction and rehabilitation centres must obtain mandatory registration and licensing from the designated authority before commencing operations.

The rules lay down guidelines on infrastructure, staffing, treatment facilities and record maintenance to ensure quality care for patients undergoing treatment for substance abuse.

Officials said no centre will be allowed to operate without prior approval, and all applications will be subject to inspection and verification by the competent authority.

The government has also made it compulsory for centres to maintain proper patient records and upload relevant data on an official digital portal to ensure monitoring and transparency.

The rules prescribe minimum infrastructure standards, including adequate space, ventilation, separate counselling rooms and patient accommodation facilities.

In addition, centres must appoint qualified professionals such as psychiatrists or medical officers, psychologists, social workers and trained nursing staff.

Authorities have been empowered to suspend or cancel licences in cases of violations, non-compliance or substandard services.

Under the ethical and patient care standards, treatment shall be voluntary, while involuntary admission will be permitted only under judicial or medical certification. The rules mandate informed consent before initiating therapy and stress strict protection of patient confidentiality and dignity.

As per the new rules, the use of force, coercion or degrading treatment has been prohibited. Family participation and community-based follow-up have been encouraged, while female patients must be attended in the presence of female staff.

“In the case of minors, consent of a parent or legal guardian shall be mandatory. Centres shall coordinate with Social Welfare and Employment Departments for post-treatment rehabilitation,” the rules state.

As per the provisions, the government will constitute a UT-level Monitoring Committee comprising representatives from the Health and Medical Education, Law, Social Welfare, Police (Narcotics Control) and Civil Administration departments.

The committee will meet quarterly to review performance and compliance, while the licensing authority will conduct at least two inspections annually. Inspection teams will include officials from health, police and social welfare departments.

All existing centres have been directed to comply with the new rules and apply for licences within six months, failing which they will cease operations.

The licensing authority will also establish a helpline and an online complaint portal for patients and families. Complaints must be resolved within 30 days, with summary reports to be published quarterly.

The move is aimed at strengthening oversight and improving the quality of rehabilitation services in Jammu and Kashmir, where concerns over rising drug addiction cases have been mounting.

Experts believe the rules will bring greater accountability and standardisation to the functioning of de-addiction centres, many of which have been operating without proper regulation.