DEA Moves Marijuana to Schedule III Status

In early 2024, the DEA announced plans to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, igniting debate among lawmakers, particularly among 25 Republicans who argued the decision lacked scientific backing. This reclassification process will continue into the presidential election cycle. Meanwhile, in Singapore, strict drug laws impose severe penalties, including the death penalty for possession of large quantities of cannabis, illustrating the country's harsh stance on drug trafficking. A local woman, Kim, faced drug trafficking charges after being named as a supplier when a friend was arrested, highlighting the dire consequences of these laws. In contrast, the drug addiction crisis in Kashmir is escalating, with hospitals reporting a significant increase in patients seeking treatment for substance abuse, driven by rising addiction rates among youth. These contrasting approaches to drug policy underscore a global struggle between legalization and strict enforcement amid growing public health concerns.