Daijiworld Media Network – Bangalore (SP)

Bangalore, Feb 15: Karnataka High Court (HC) on Monday February 14, ordered initiation of strict action against the heads and managements of educational institutions which have not yet banned the sale of tobacco products within their premises, within a week. This order was issued by the HC division bench comprising Chief Justice J S Khehar, and Justice A S Bopanna.

The bench was hearing a public interest litigation filed by Cancer Patient Aid Association about the prevalent use of tobacco products in schools and colleges. The HC said that sale of tobacco products should be restricted within 100 metres radius from the premises of the educational institutions, and boards announcing the ban should be set up at these premises. While passing the order, the HC sought for a report on steps undertaken by the government in this direction, by February 21.

“The government should be prepared to take legal steps against erring private educational institutions. In the case of government and aided private educational institutions, the government can question them and then if necessary, cut their grants. In the case of private institutions, this measure is not practicable. Hence, immediate legal steps should be initiated against them,” the HC said.

The hearing of the PIL now stands adjourned to the 21st of this month.