The Karnataka government, in a decisive move aimed at safeguarding public health and upholding law and order, has recently enacted legislation to enforce a comprehensive prohibition on hookah bars throughout the state. This legislation entails robust penalties, with fines of up to Rs 1 lakh and potential imprisonment ranging from one to three years for individuals found in violation of the ban. This significant measure, passed on Wednesday, involves an amendment to the existing Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), reflecting the government's steadfast commitment to promoting the well-being of its populace and curbing the prevalence of tobacco-related ailments.
Furthermore, the legislation extends to restrict the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products to individuals below 21 years of age, thereby aiming to deter underage consumption and its associated health risks. Notably, the amended Bill includes provisions for a blanket prohibition on tobacco product usage in public spaces, underscoring the state's dedication to fostering smoke-free environments conducive to the general welfare.
In a parallel initiative, the government has also implemented restrictions on the sale of cigarettes and tobacco products within a 100-meter radius of educational institutions, reinforcing its proactive stance on mitigating youth exposure to such substances. Violators of this regulation may incur fines amounting to Rs 1,000, as part of the state's multifaceted approach to enforcement.
Addressing the rationale behind these measures, Karnataka minister and Congress leader Priyank Kharge emphasized the imperative to prioritize public health considerations and maintain societal order, particularly in light of the prevalence of underage patronage in such establishments.
These legislative actions are underpinned by compelling data from the WHO Global Adult Tobacco Survey-2016-17 (GATS-2), which revealed alarming statistics regarding tobacco usage within the state. Notably, the survey highlighted that 22.8 percent of adults in Karnataka are tobacco users, with 8.8 percent identified as active smokers. Moreover, a concerning 23.9 percent of adults are categorized as passive smokers, further underscoring the urgency of regulatory interventions to mitigate tobacco-related health hazards.
This proactive stance mirrors similar measures undertaken by other Indian states, exemplified by Telangana's recent enactment of a comparable ban on hookah parlors. Additionally, Haryana had previously announced measures to prohibit the serving of hookah in various commercial establishments, underscoring a broader trend towards stringent tobacco control measures nationwide.
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