Karnataka Cracks Down on Underage Smoking
New Law Prohibits Cigarette Sales to Minors
Over 5 Lakh Fined for Public Smoking
In a landmark move to curb tobacco use among youth, the Karnataka government has introduced a ban on cigarette sales to individuals under the age of 21. This new law, part of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply, and Distribution) Act (COTPA), aims to reduce the alarming rates of smoking among young people in the state.
According to data from the Karnataka Health Department, over 5 lakh individuals have been fined for smoking in public places since the implementation of COTPA in 2003. Notably, smoking is prohibited in all public areas, including hotels, bars, and restaurants with a capacity of over 30 seats.
To further enforce the ban on underage smoking, the government has launched a dedicated mobile application called Stop Tobacco. This app empowers citizens to report instances of illegal cigarette sales to minors. Additionally, the government has partnered with local law enforcement to conduct regular inspections and crack down on violators.
The new law and the Stop Tobacco app are part of a comprehensive strategy to protect the health of Karnataka's youth. Smoking remains a major public health concern, contributing to various diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses. By prohibiting cigarette sales to minors, the government sends a clear message that tobacco use will not be tolerated among young people.
The Karnataka government's efforts to curb underage smoking have received widespread support from health experts and public health advocates. They commend the government for taking a proactive approach to addressing this critical issue and protecting the future generations of Karnataka from the harmful effects of tobacco use.
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