Bokaro: District administration conducted a campaign under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, targeting violations of Sections 4, 6A, and 6B. The operation, led by Sector 6 police and District Advisory Officer Mohammed Aslam, inspected 77 shops near DAV School, Crescent Public School, DPS Sector 5, Chinmaya School, and Chira Chas Bridge. Fourteen shopkeepers were fined ₹2,100 for violations such as selling tobacco within 100 yards of schools and displaying advertisements.
Shopkeepers Warned Against Violations
Sector 6 police warned shopkeepers against displaying tobacco-related advertisements. Strict instructions were given to remove such posters, with violations attracting fines up to ₹1,000 or imprisonment under Section 5 of COTPA. Suppliers face higher penalties of ₹5,000 or five years of imprisonment.
Awareness on Tobacco-Free Zones
District Advisor Mohammed Aslam emphasised compliance with Section 6A, prohibiting the sale of tobacco to minors, and Section 6B, banning tobacco sales near schools. The team also reminded shopkeepers about the complete prohibition of loose cigarette sales under Section 7 of COTPA.
Appeal to Residents
Residents were urged to avoid smoking in public places, as violations under Section 4 of COTPA will result in penalties.
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