HT Correspondent
DIMAPUR, May 5: Kohima deputy commissioner B Henok Buchem, who is also the chairman of district level coordination committee, National Tobacco Control Programme, Kohima, on Monday directed all village councils, municipal and town wards, government departments, educational institutions, commercial establishments, and the public to ensure strict adherence to key provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003 (COTPA 2003) in the district.
In a circular, Buchem pointed out that smoking is strictly prohibited in all public places, including government offices, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, public transport, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
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It directed that clear ‘No Smoking’ signage must be prominently displayed in all such areas.
The DC said all forms of direct and indirect advertisements, promotion, and sponsorship of cigarettes and other tobacco products are strictly prohibited.
This includes point-of-sale displays, hoardings, promotional events, and any other means of encouraging tobacco use, he added.
The circular further said the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products to persons below the age of 18 is strictly prohibited. It said retailers are required to verify the age of purchasers.
It also reminded that the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products is banned within a radius of 100 meters from the outer boundary of any educational institution, including schools, colleges, and universities.
The circular asked all authorities concerned to ensure strict implementation of the provisions of the COTPA Act 2003 within their respective jurisdictions.
It said any violations or difficulties in implementation should be reported to the district nodal officer, District Tobacco Control Cell, Kohima.
