Preventive Detention Confirmation Order Quashed for ‘Non-Application of Mind’, Detenue’s Release Directed: Punjab and Haryana High Court

Chandigarh, May 21, 2026: The Punjab and Haryana High Court has quashed a preventive detention confirmation order passed under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1988 and held that the State Government cannot act as a mere rubber stamp while confirming detention orders. The Court made it clear that authorities must independently apply their mind before extending detention and deciding its duration. Court Explains…