Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Oct 1: Despite tougher rules under the amended tobacco control law, public smoking and the use of tobacco products continue unchecked across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.

Authorities have booked 6,753 cases and collected Rs 5,05,065 in fines so far this year, but officials admit that the battle is far from over — especially as minors continue to get easy access to tobacco.

The Karnataka COTPA (Amendment) Act, 2025, came into effect on May 30, hiking penalties for smoking or chewing tobacco in public places from Rs 200 to Rs 1,000. It also raised the minimum legal age for tobacco consumption from 18 to 21 years. Selling tobacco to anyone under 21 is now a punishable offence.

Yet, authorities say many shops are illegally selling tobacco products without proper licences — and in some cases, even to underage users.

Tobacco reaches teenagers despite rules

Undercover sales and lack of monitoring are allowing even adolescents to purchase tobacco. Retailers are often found violating the ban near schools, where tobacco sales are prohibited within a 100-metre radius.

To counter this, the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) has stepped up awareness drives. Between April and August, NTCP officials reached 16,155 students across 49 schools in Dakshina Kannada. Seven training sessions also educated 419 personnel on enforcement.

Interestingly, fines totalling Rs 1,84,069 were imposed in 142 cases handled by non-police officials, reflecting the broader push to involve multiple agencies.

Who can fine? Not just the police

In a move to expand enforcement, COTPA now authorises not only police officers but also excise officials, KSRTC depot managers, and other gazetted officers to penalise offenders. These officials can take action if smoking or tobacco use is spotted in or around their office premises.

No promotions, no lighters, no excuses

Vendors have also been barred from promoting tobacco in any form. Displaying lighters, ashtrays or any smoking accessories is prohibited, and no advertising of tobacco products is allowed at shops — especially near educational institutions.

Gateway to drug abuse, warn experts

Health officials are raising alarm over the long-term effects of tobacco use, calling it a gateway to harder substances like cannabis. “Tobacco use often begins with beedis or cigarettes and later leads to drug addiction,” said an NTCP officer.

They also warn of links to multiple cancers — including oral, oesophageal, stomach, kidney, bladder, and lung cancer.

‘Fine them, don’t beat them’ – Help is available

To support quitting efforts, the NTCP offers counselling services for those wanting to give up the habit. Dr Naveen Chandra Kulal, District NTCP Officer (Dakshina Kannada), said: “We are intensifying both enforcement and awareness. Violators are fined under COTPA, and students are being educated. Through NTCP, we also offer counselling support for those who wish to break free from tobacco addiction.”

With the festive season bringing larger crowds to public spaces, officials urge vigilance from citizens and stronger cooperation to curb tobacco use — especially around children and youth.