DM directs vendors to install warning boards within 15 days; sale of tobacco near schools banned, violators to face legal action
Bandipora, May 8 : The District Magistrate Bandipora has issued a strict public notice prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to minors and near educational institutions, warning that violators will face stringent legal action under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) and Juvenile Justice Act.
As per the public notice, a copy of which lies with news agency JKNS, the administration said the directions have been issued in the interest of child welfare and public health in accordance with the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003 and the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
The notice stated that Section 6 of COTPA strictly prohibits the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products to persons below 18 years of age and within a radius of 100 yards of any educational institution.
The administration also referred to Section 77 of the Juvenile Justice Act, which provides punishment of up to seven years imprisonment and a fine up to ₹1 lakh for giving intoxicating substances, including tobacco products, to children.
The District Magistrate directed all retailers, vendors, shopkeepers and distributors to install statutory warning boards within 15 days, verify the age of purchasers through valid government-issued photo identity cards, discontinue employment of minors in tobacco-related trade and stop the sale of tobacco products near educational institutions.
The notice further stated that all shops dealing in tobacco products must display warning messages prominently stating that selling tobacco to minors is a punishable offence carrying rigorous imprisonment and monetary penalties.
The administration warned that non-compliance with the directions will attract strict punishment under the relevant provisions of COTPA and the Juvenile Justice Act along with rules framed thereunder. (JKNS)
