Police penalise public smoking under COTPA in Kangan

  • Umar Raina By Umar Raina
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  • 06 Oct 2025

Ganderbal, Oct 06: Ganderbal Police on Monday carried out a special drive in Kangan under the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, to curb public smoking and ensure strict enforcement of tobacco control laws. During the drive, several individuals were penalised for smoking in public places, while awareness was also raised regarding the harmful effects of tobacco use and the legal restrictions under COTPA. SHO Kangan, Lateef Ali, said the campaign aims to promote a healthier environment and protect non-smokers from the hazards of passive smoking. "The drive aims to enforce the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) 2003, which bans smoking in public places and prohibits the sale of tobacco products within 100 yards of educational institutions,” he said. "Such initiatives would continue in the coming days to ensure strict compliance with the law." The SHO added, "Our goal is not only to penalise violators but also to spread awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and encourage people to follow the law for the well-being of society." Police have urged the public to cooperate in maintaining a smoke-free environment and to report violations to the nearest police station.  

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