Ganderbal|Feb, 25: The Office of the Executive Magistrate 1st Class Kangan has issued a public order directing strict enforcement of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003 across its jurisdiction, aiming to safeguard public health, particularly that of children and youth.
According to the order, smoking in all public places has been strictly prohibited under Section 4 of the Act. The ban covers government offices, educational institutions, hospitals, public transport, markets, restaurants, parks, banks, and all locations accessible to the general public. Authorities managing such places have been instructed to ensure compliance and display “No Smoking” signage as prescribed under the rules.
The directive also reiterates provisions under Section 6(a), which prohibit the sale of cigarettes or any tobacco products to persons below 18 years of age. Vendors have been ordered to prominently display boards stating that sale to minors is prohibited. In addition, under Section 6(b), the sale of tobacco products within a 100-metre radius of any educational institution has been banned. Shopkeepers operating within the restricted zone have been instructed to immediately cease such sales. The order advises the public to report violations—including smoking in prohibited areas, sale of tobacco to minors, drug abuse, and sale of tobacco near educational institutions—to authorities so that prompt legal action can be taken. Officials warned that any violation will attract penal action under Sections 21 and 24 of COTPA and other applicable laws. All concerned departments, enforcement agencies, and stakeholders have been directed to ensure strict implementation, with non-compliance to be treated seriously.
