India Issues Advisory as Maldives Enforces Tougher Drug Laws

Indian authorities have issued a fresh warning to citizens travelling to the Maldives, citing newly strengthened anti-drug laws that impose some of the harshest penalties in the region.

The advisory, released by the Narcotics Control Bureau, highlights amendments to the Maldives’ Drugs Act that came into force in March. Under the revised legislation, drug-related offences now carry significantly tougher punishments — including life imprisonment and, in cases involving large-scale trafficking, the death penalty, subject to unanimous approval by the Supreme Court of the Maldives.

The advisory warned travellers that even possession of small quantities of prohibited substances can attract stricter penalties than before.

The High Commission of India in Malé has also urged travellers to fully comply with local laws.

Key cautions issued to travellers include:

• Do not carry items or luggage for others without full knowledge of the contents
• Remain vigilant at airports and transit points when approached by strangers
• Keep personal baggage under constant supervision
• Understand that ignorance of the law will not be accepted as a defence

Authorities have also encouraged reporting of suspicious activity via the Indian National Narcotics Helpline (1933).

The advisory underscores India’s zero-tolerance stance on drug trafficking and reflects growing enforcement in the Maldives, a destination popular among Indian tourists.