Hazaribag: The Chatra district administration on Saturday imposed fines on tobacco law violators and warned of stricter action for smoking in public places and puja pandals as well as the illegal sale and promotion of tobacco products during Durga Puja.A joint team of the health department and police conducted an enforcement drive in Hunterganj block to ensure compliance with the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). The operation, led by Hunterganj police sub-inspector Veer Bahadur Singh, was carried out on the instructions of deputy commissioner Ravi Anand.During inspections of shops and public places between Kauleshwari More and Chatra bus stand, the team imposed fines totalling Rs 1,000 for violations of COTPA provisions. Shopkeepers were warned against breaching tobacco-control norms and sensitised about regulations governing the sale, advertisement, and promotion of tobacco products.The administration urged residents and traders to cooperate in maintaining smoke-free public spaces and ensuring a healthy environment for devotees during puja.Puja committees in Hazaribag sadar subdivision have been directed to install CCTV cameras or arrange videography of pandals, ensure fire safety measures, and provide separate entry and exit gates for men and women during Durga Puja.Sadar SDM Aditya Pandey on Saturday imposed restrictions under Section 163 of the BNSS till Oct 22. Committees must obtain licences, submit volunteer details, and secure NOCs for pandals. The administration has banned loudspeaker use between 10 pm and 6 am, prohibited weapons and unauthorised processions, and warned against circulation of provocative content on social media to maintain law and order during the festivities.
