Mandya Authorities Launch Major Tobacco Enforcement Drive in Maddur Taluk
In a significant move to curb the illegal sale and consumption of tobacco products, a special enforcement drive under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) was conducted in the Shivapura and Bharathinagara areas of Maddur taluk in Mandya district. This coordinated effort aimed to safeguard public health and enforce strict compliance with tobacco control regulations.
Multi-Agency Operation Targets Tobacco Violations
The operation was a joint initiative involving multiple authorities, including the district health and family welfare department, the district enforcement officer, the district tobacco control cell, the Maddur City Municipal Council (CMC), and the KM Doddi and Maddur police stations. This collaborative approach ensured comprehensive coverage and effective implementation of the enforcement measures.
The drive was conducted under the expert guidance of key officials such as district health officer Dr. Mohan K, district enforcement officer Bettaswamy, Maddur city municipal commissioner Radhika, and circle inspector Naveen Kumar. Taluk health officer Dr. Ravishankar led the on-ground operations, overseeing the meticulous execution of the campaign.
Substantial Fines and Cases Registered During the Drive
During the enforcement drive, officials registered a total of 84 cases and imposed fines amounting to Rs 16,650. The breakdown of these cases reveals a focused approach on different types of violations:
- 62 cases were booked under Section 4 of COTPA for smoking in public places, resulting in fines totaling Rs 14,500.
- Ten other cases were registered with fines amounting to Rs 1,000 for various tobacco-related infractions.
- 12 cases were booked under Section 6B for selling tobacco products near educational institutions, leading to fines of Rs 1,150.
Awareness Campaign and Strict Warnings Issued
As part of the drive, officials distributed pamphlets highlighting the harmful effects of both direct and passive tobacco consumption. This awareness campaign aimed to educate the public and shop owners about the severe health risks associated with tobacco use.
Shop owners were issued stern warnings regarding strict legal action in case of repeat violations. They were instructed to adhere strictly to the rules and regulations governing tobacco sales. Additionally, they were informed that obtaining a mandatory licence from the Maddur CMC is essential for selling tobacco products within the town limits.
Surprise Raids to Continue for a Tobacco-Free Society
In an interview with TOI, Mandya district Tobacco Control Cell consultant Thimmaraju provided further insights into the drive. He revealed that during the operation, the team encountered four students smoking and identified over 30 passive smokers near college premises. Several shops were found operating without the required licences, underscoring the need for continued vigilance.
Thimmaraju emphasized that surprise raids would be conducted regularly to ensure compliance and foster a healthier, tobacco-free society. This ongoing enforcement strategy aims to deter violations and promote public well-being across Mandya district.
