Issues circular on tobacco sales near schools, seminaries; Bans display, promotion of products
Ovaise Gul
Srinagar, May 12: The Child Welfare Committee (CWC) Srinagar has issued a circular directing strict prohibition on the sale of tobacco products, intoxicants and illicit drugs near educational institutions, Child Care Institutions (CCIs) and religious institutions across the district.
The circular, issued by the Bench of 1st Class Judicial Magistrate CWC Srinagar, stated that the step has been taken in view of the growing concern over substance abuse among children and adolescents.
According to the directions, sale of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, gutka, pan masala, alcohol, narcotic substances and other prohibited drugs within a radius of 100 yards of schools, colleges, CCIs, Darul Ulooms and religious institutions has been strictly banned as per law.
The CWC also directed that no shopkeeper or vendor shall display, advertise or promote tobacco products or intoxicants near places frequented by children.
Educational institutions have been asked to install warning boards outside their premises stating that sale of tobacco products and intoxicants near institutions is punishable under law.
Institutions were further instructed to establish awareness and vigilance mechanisms to identify children vulnerable to substance abuse and ensure timely counselling and rehabilitation support.
The circular advised schools and other institutions to conduct regular awareness programmes, counselling sessions, parent-teacher interactions and life-skill education campaigns on the harmful effects of drugs, vaping and tobacco consumption.
The committee also called for coordination among schools, health authorities, social welfare departments, NGOs and counselling centres to create a child-friendly and drug-free environment.
It warned that strict legal action would be recommended against any person found violating the directions or involving children in activities related to tobacco, drugs or intoxicants.