Jahanvi Agarwal
On 22nd February 2024, the Karnataka State Government introduced the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Bill, 2024, with the aim of tightening regulations surrounding the sale of tobacco. A notable change proposed in this bill is the increase in the legal age for purchasing cigarettes from 18 to 21 years.
This amendment, which is part of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Manufacture, Supply and Distribution) (Karnataka Amendment) Bill, has been successfully passed in the Assembly.
During the assembly session, the State Health Minister Dinesh Gundurao emphasized the significance of this amendment, stating that the sale of cigarettes to individuals under 21 years old is now strictly prohibited in the state. Previously, the legal age limit for purchasing cigarettes was 18 years, but it has now been raised to 21 years.
Additionally, to discourage underage smoking, the bill prohibits the sale of cigarettes within a 100-meter radius of schools. Addressing concerns raised by small traders, Minister Gundurao explained that the fine for violations of this provision has been capped at Rs. 1,000, compared to the initially proposed Rs. 10,000.
Furthermore, the bill addresses the issue of hookah bars, prohibiting their operation in any establishment, including eateries, pubs, or restaurants. Those found operating unauthorized hookah bars face severe penalties, including imprisonment ranging from one to three years and fines ranging from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1 lakh.
Minister Gundurao explained the importance of this ban on hookah bars, emphasizing the health risks associated with hookah smoking, especially among the youth who often view it as a fashionable trend. He stressed that hookah smoking not only harms the individuals directly involved but also poses risks to passive smokers.
The bill also extends its regulations to public places, prohibiting the use of tobacco products in such settings, including smoking and spitting of tobacco. However, exceptions are made for hotels with 30 or more rooms, restaurants with a seating capacity of 30 or more patrons, and airports, where designated smoking areas may be provided.
The overarching goal of the bill is to safeguard public health, particularly that of young individuals, by curbing tobacco use and its associated risks.
Through the implementation of stricter regulations on tobacco sales and usage, the Karnataka government aims to reduce the prevalence of tobacco-related diseases and promote a healthier environment for its citizens.