Srinagar: In its continued commitment to fostering a healthy, safe, and drug-free environment for students, Police in Shopian on Friday conducted a special checking drive across the district, targeting shops located within a 100-meter radius of educational institutions.
During the inspection drive 26 shops were identified as violating COTPA regulations and were fined accordingly. Shopkeepers and vendors received education on the harmful effects of tobacco use and the legal repercussions of selling these products in restricted areas. They were explicitly instructed to refrain from selling tobacco or related products to minors and within designated zones. The police reiterated their commitment to enforcing laws that protect youth from the dangers of tobacco and other addictive substances. Authorities highlighted that such enforcement drives will continue throughout the district to ensure compliance and to discourage unhealthy and illegal practices near schools and colleges. In a statement issued in this connection Police appealed people to cooperate with it and report any violations to help maintain a tobacco-free environment for students.
