DHSK holds anti tobacco drive; COTPA violators fined

SRINAGAR, January 28: On the directions of Director Health Services Kashmir (DSHK), Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Rather, Tobacco Control cell of DSHK with the active  support of SHO Police Station  Bemina launched anti tobacco enforcement drive around Bemina and adjoining areas in the  vicinity of Pediatric hospital and Government SKIMS Medical College Bemina.

During the enforcement drive various street vendors were found selling cigarettes and other tobacco products in violation of COTPA 2003 act.

The erring were on spot fined and cigarettes and other products were seized from them. Various individuals who were found smoking in public places were also fined.

Director Health services Kashmir, Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Rather said that more and more such drives will be launched in future.

He said that selling tobacco products in and around health and education institutions is banned as per law. He further said that smoking is the major cause of all cancers and whole society shall join hands to control its use.