In a decisive move to protect public health, the Gujarat government has enacted an immediate and comprehensive statewide prohibition on rolling papers and related smoking paraphernalia. The ban, announced on Tuesday, targets the storage, sale, distribution, and movement of items like rolling papers, gogo smoking cones, and perfect rolls.
Health Concerns and Youth Protection Drive the Ban
The drastic action stems from escalating worries over substance abuse, particularly among the state's younger demographic. Officials cited growing health concerns and rising substance abuse among minors and youth as the primary catalyst. A notification issued by the state home department, under the authority of Principal Secretary Nipuna Torawane, revealed that intelligence from diverse sources—including social media platforms, advertisements, and community networks—indicated these products are frequently used for consuming narcotics like charas and ganja.
Beyond their association with illegal drugs, the notification highlighted that these products themselves contain a cocktail of harmful chemicals. These include titanium oxide, potassium nitrate, artificial dyes, calcium carbonate, and chlorine bleach, all posing significant risks to physical health.
Widespread Availability and Immediate Enforcement
A key factor prompting the ban is the easy accessibility of these items. Authorities noted that rolling papers and cones are readily available at ubiquitous local outlets such as paan parlours, tea stalls, and small grocery shops across Gujarat, facilitating early exposure and habit formation.
Invoking powers under Sections 163(2) and 163(3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, the prohibition is effective immediately. The order explicitly bars all retail establishments from storing, selling, or distributing these banned items. The government stated this restriction is necessary in the public interest and for the well-being of citizens, aiming to discourage early exposure to addictive substances and prevent long-term health damage in adolescents and young adults.
Strict Penalties for Non-Compliance
Enforcement agencies have been directed to ensure strict adherence to the new rule. The notification makes it clear that any person found violating the order will be liable for punishment under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. The state administration has urged both citizens and traders to cooperate with this measure for the larger interest of public health and youth welfare.
This sweeping ban represents a significant step in Gujarat's ongoing efforts to combat substance abuse, directly targeting the supply chain of accessories that enable the consumption of narcotics and other harmful substances.
