District Flying Squad Intensifies Action Against Tobacco Law Violations; Educational Institutions Also Inspected
Dharamshala, - Stepping up the campaign against tobacco use and its harmful impact on public health, the District Flying Squad on Tobacco Control, in collaboration with the Special Task Force (STF) on Addiction, conducted a special enforcement drive across Barol, Dari and Dharamshala on Monday. Five violators were challaned for violations of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) and the Himachal Pradesh Loose Cigarette Retail Regulation Act, 2016.
The teams conducted inspections of public places, commercial establishments and areas around educational institutions. Violations detected included smoking in public places, non-display of mandatory signage prohibiting sale of tobacco products to minors, and sale of loose cigarettes. Various educational institutions were also inspected and advised to ensure strict compliance with tobacco-control provisions.
The drive was led by District Nodal Officer Dr. Anuradha, with participation from District Panchayat Officer Sh. Sachin Thakur, Food Safety Officer Smt. Sugandhi, Drug Inspector Smt. Meenakshi, LC Kanika and Constable Sh. Pyare Lal from STF, HSG Smt. Meena and Sh. Suresh Mandyal from the Health Department.
Officials highlighted that tobacco consumption is a major preventable cause of cancer, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and premature mortality. Early exposure to tobacco can also increase vulnerability to substance use and addiction.
“Every violation detected and every preventive action taken is a step towards a healthier and addiction-free society. Inter-departmental coordination will remain a key component of our enforcement strategy.”
The District Administration reiterated that special enforcement drives will continue across the district and urged shopkeepers, educational institutions, community organizations and citizens to support tobacco-free initiatives.
“Protecting children from tobacco is a shared responsibility. We appeal to every stakeholder to comply with tobacco-control laws and help build a safer, healthier environment for the next generation.”
The enforcement drive specifically covered provisions relating to smoking in public places, prohibition of sale of tobacco products to minors, prohibition of sale within 100 yards of educational institutions, prohibition of tobacco advertising, and prohibition of sale of loose cigarettes.
The District Administration has called upon citizens and all stakeholders to join the collective effort to make Dharamshala a tobacco-free, healthier and safer community.
“Tobacco control is not only about enforcement; it is about protecting our children and young people from the cycle of addiction. Strict implementation of the law will continue across the district.”
— Dr. Anuradha, District Nodal Officer