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Authorities have instructed officials across the district to take stringent action against shops selling loose cigarettes and permitting the use of tobacco products in public places. The directives were issued during a District-Level Coordination Committee meeting held under the National Tobacco Control Programme at the Deputy Commissioner’s office on Tuesday. Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Raju K chaired the meeting and directed urban local bodies and gram panchayats to enforce tobacco control rules rigorously. He emphasised that smoking or using tobacco in public areas is strictly prohibited and that cigarettes must be sold only in sealed packs, not as single sticks. Crackdown on illegal cigarette sales The ADC instructed that shops and hotels found violating these rules be sealed, and their goods confiscated. He also directed officials to submit a detailed report at the next meeting, outlining the number of shops inspected, violations identified, fines imposed, and establishments closed. Highlighting the rising incidence of cancer and other diseases linked to tobacco use, Raju K said, “Public health is of utmost importance. Those who play with people’s health will not be tolerated under any circumstances.” Complete ban near educational institutions Authorities have reiterated that shops located within 100 metres of schools and colleges are prohibited from selling beedis, cigarettes, pan masala, or any other tobacco products. Principals of educational institutions have been instructed to inspect nearby shops and report any violations to local authorities. All educational heads must also submit compliance reports within a week, including details of any shops closed for breaching tobacco sale restrictions. Action against cafés and hotels allowing smoking The ADC also addressed public complaints regarding smoking in cafés and restaurants within the city. He directed officials to conduct raids and shut down establishments that allow smoking or sell cigarettes illegally. Additionally, the administration announced a complete ban on smoking and tobacco use within all government hospital premises across the district. Enforcement data and ongoing efforts District Tobacco Control Officer Dr. Naveen Chandra reported that between April and October 2025, 1,488 cases were registered for smoking or using tobacco in public places, resulting in fines totalling ₹1.89 lakh. Assistant Commissioner of Police Vijaya Kranti stated that the police department had booked 1,756 cases for similar violations during the same period. The meeting was attended by District Health Officer Dr. Thimmaiah, Wenlock Hospital Superintendent Dr. Shivaprakash, and other senior officials. Health first: Tobacco-free public spaces The authorities’ renewed enforcement drive aims to make public spaces and educational environments tobacco-free, ensuring citizens’ right to a healthy and safe atmosphere. The district administration has made it clear that repeated violators will face strict penalties and closure orders, marking a major step toward curbing tobacco use in the region.
