Crackdown on smoking, tobacco sales: 86 violators penalized in Ferozepur
HARISH MONGA
Ferozepur, September 18, 2024: In a determined effort to curb illegal tobacco sales and public smoking, health department teams, led by Civil Surgeon Dr. Rajwinder Kaur, have intensified their crackdown on violators of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) 2003. Shopkeepers engaging in unlawful tobacco sales and individuals smoking in public spaces face strict penalties as part of this focused enforcement campaign.
The COTPA (Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act), 2003, sets various fines and penalties for violations related to the sale, promotion, and consumption of tobacco products. The fines aim to discourage the consumption of tobacco in public places and restrict its availability, particularly to vulnerable groups like minors.
Dr. Rajwinder Kaur highlighted that the health department ensures strict COTPA regulations adherence. A total of 86 fines have been issued to shopkeepers, the general public, and kiosk owners for violating these laws. Continuous checks are being conducted, and those found smoking in public are not only fined but also educated about the harmful effects of tobacco use.
According to Dr. Kaur, under Section 4 of the COTPA Act, no person is allowed to smoke in public places, and violations can result in a fine of up to ₹200. Additionally, Section 6(A) prohibits the sale of tobacco products to individuals under the age of 18, while Section 6(B) bans the sale of tobacco products within 100 yards of educational institutions. Advertising of tobacco products is also banned under Section 5, and the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products without health warnings is prohibited under Section 7.
Dr Kaur emphasized the severe health risks associated with tobacco use, stating that approximately 48 people die each day in Punjab due to tobacco-related diseases. Tobacco consumption is linked to serious health issues, including oral cancer, bad breath, and dental diseases, as it contains over 4,000 toxic chemicals, including nicotine. With its easy availability, tobacco often serves as a gateway to addiction, making it crucial to keep children and young adults away from it. She stressed that it is a collective responsibility to protect the younger generation from falling into addiction.