Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru (MS)

Bengaluru, Oct 19: Cases registered under COTPA act of 2003 against those who were smoking in public places. In 15 days 960 cases are booked.

Speaking on the subject, police commissioner, B Dayanand said, “Awareness is created among public with regards to the ill effects of smoking. Police are checking compliance to no smoking rule in hotels, pubs, bar and restaurants as well as shops selling cigarettes. They have already inspected 1051 spots.

“It has come to light that many do not know COTPA act at all. So violations are seen at many places. Those who violate the rule should pay fine. For some offences two year imprisonment is also done.

“Due to smoking in public places, inconvenience is caused to women, children and elderly people. More importantly, if smokers smoke on footpath and bus stands it causes disturbance to other public. Hence, the city police have tightened the Cigarette and Tobacco Product Act. As many as 960 cases are registered after checking 1051 spots. Posters are put up in 4698 places to create awareness about smoking," he said.