Times News NetworkKanpur: The health department will take action against those selling tobacco products within a 100-yard radius of schools.According to chief medical officer Dr Haridatta Nemi, selling tobacco to individuals under the age of 18 is also an offence. Smoking in public places can attract a fine of up to ₹200. Under the National Tobacco Control Program, the provisions of the COTPA Act, 2003 will be strictly enforced in the district.The CMO said that smoking in public places is prohibited under the COTPA Act. It is mandatory for all offices and educational institutions to display a 60×30 cm board stating, “Smoking here is an offence.” Below this, the name and mobile number of the nodal officer, along with the name of the department, must also be displayed for lodging complaints.He said that there is a complete ban on the direct or indirect advertising of tobacco products. A first-time violation is punishable with a fine of up to Rs 1,000, imprisonment up to two years, or both. A repeat violation can attract a fine of up to Rs 5,000 and imprisonment up to five years. Promotional material would also be confiscated.The production, storage, distribution, and sale of tobacco products without the mandated 85% pictorial health warning are prohibited. Violations carry a penalty of up to Rs 500 or imprisonment for up to one year for a first offence, and a fine of up to Rs 1,000 and imprisonment up to two years for a repeat offence. The sale of loose cigarettes is also prohibited; violations attract a fine of Rs 1,000.The production, storage, distribution, and sale of tobacco products without the mandated 85% pictorial health warning are prohibited. Violations carry a penalty of up to Rs.500 or imprisonment for up to one year for a first offence, and a fine of up to Rs.1,000 and imprisonment up to two years for a repeat offence. The sale of loose cigarettes is also prohibited; violations attract a fine of Rs.1,000.
