East Jaintia Hills to takes action against smoking in public places and sale of tobacco near schools

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaAugust 30, 2023

In a significant move, East Jaintia Hills Police, led by Superintendent of Police Jagpal Singh Dhanoa, IPS, in collaboration with the Meghalaya Government’s Department of Health has pledged to take stringent measures against smoking in public places and the sale of tobacco within 100 yards of educational institutions. To ensure the effective implementation of the Cigarettes & Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), all Police Officers in East Jaintia Hills received comprehensive training conducted by the National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP), Department of Health in collaboration with Sambandh Health Foundation (SHF). As a testament to their commitment, all Police Officers also took an oath to fight against tobacco.

A Cancer Surgeon from Woodland Hospital, Shillong and the Voice of Tobacco Victims (VOTV) Patron, highlighted the grave consequences of tobacco use, stating that 40% of all types of cancers are caused by tobacco, with 90% of oral and lung cancers being directly attributable to its use. He also emphasized that the nicotine present in cigarettes and other tobacco products is more addictive than heroin and less than 5% of users are successful in quitting. Therefore, the most effective strategy is to prevent initiation of tobacco use among children.

Furthermore, as per Section 77 of the Juvenile Justice Act, “Whoever gives, or causes to be given, to any child any intoxicating liquor or any narcotic drug or tobacco products or psychotropic substance, except on the order of a duly qualified medical practitioner, shall be punishable with rigorous imprisonment for a term which may extend to seven years and shall also be liable to a fine which may extend up to one lakh rupees.”

Dr. Lana L Nongbri, the State Nodal Officer of the National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP), NHM, Government of Meghalaya, highlighted the findings of the Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS), revealing that 33.6% of 13-15-year-olds in the state are tobacco consumers. The Departments of Health & Education, Government of Meghalaya are running the Tobacco Free Educational Institution (ToFEI) program in all districts to reduce the prevalence in the state.