Statewide crackdown on tobacco sale near educational institutions in Himachal Pradesh

The Himachal Pradesh Police has initiated a statewide crackdown on tobacco products being sold near educational institutions, including coaching centres, by strictly enforcing the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003.

In a measure to safeguard the health and well-being of youngsters, police teams across the state are conducting inspections in areas near schools, colleges and coaching centres, including at markets and public-gathering zones, a statement issued by the police headquarters said on Wednesday.

Tobacco products have been seized from various locations, hundreds of challans have been issued to violators and fines have been imposed to deter future offences since July 1, the statement added.

In Dehra police district alone, 210 challans were issued and a total fine amount of ₹34,500 was collected, a senior police officer said, adding that the data from other districts is being collected and compiled.

The primary objective of the campaign is to reduce students' exposure to both passive smoking and an easy availability of tobacco products, Director General of Police (DGP) Ashok Tewari was quoted as saying in the statement.

By enforcing the COTPA rigorously, the Himachal Pradesh Police aims to instill a sense of responsibility among vendors and the public alike, promoting a healthier environment for youngsters, he added.

Citizens have been urged to report any violations of the COTPA to the local police or through helpline numbers. Regular monitoring and strict enforcement will ensure that areas around educational institutions remain tobacco-free, the statement said.

The Himachal Pradesh Police recognises that tobacco use can often be a gateway to drug addiction. By curbing the sale of tobacco products, police also aim to deter shopkeepers from engaging in the sale of more harmful substances, the statement added.