Four deputies from the Free Cause Party (HÜDA PAR) have submitted a comprehensive bill to the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye (TBMM) that proposes significantly tougher penalties for drug-related crimes, including life imprisonment for leaders of organized drug trafficking networks.

The bill was submitted by HÜDA PAR Chairman Zekeriya Yapıcıoğlu, along with party deputies Şahzade Demir, Faruk Dinç, and Serkan Ramanlı. The proposal outlines tougher penalties for drug offenders and introduces new mechanisms for prevention, rehabilitation, and law enforcement coordination.

According to the draft legislation, leaders of organized crime networks involved in drug trafficking would face life imprisonment. The bill also mandates harsher punishments for public officials found to be complicit in drug-related offenses, emphasizing the need for accountability within state institutions.

A notable component of the proposal is the introduction of mandatory treatment and rehabilitation for individuals struggling with drug addiction. HÜDA PAR argues that combating narcotics requires not only punitive measures but also comprehensive public health interventions.

The bill highlights the multi-dimensional and destructive nature of drug use and trafficking, stressing the need for a long-term, sustainable strategy. It adopts a holistic approach encompassing security, healthcare, education, and social services to strengthen the country’s capacity to prevent drug abuse and safeguard social stability.

HÜDA PAR’s initiative aims to enhance Türkiye’s overall drug-control framework and reinforce public order at a time when narcotics-related issues pose growing challenges for communities across the country.

The bill now enters the parliamentary process, where it will be reviewed by the relevant commission before potential debate and voting in the general assembly. Its submission is likely to spur further discussion on Turkey's policies regarding drug enforcement, penal reform, and public health approaches to addiction. (ILKHA)