Guwahati: Officers in Assam’s Margherita Co-District conducted an enforcement drive today, to check violations of tobacco control laws and prevent the sale of tobacco products within 100 yards of educational institutions.
The joint operation was carried out in Margherita town to enforce the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003.
The team comprised Assistant Commissioner Pronami Gogoi, Margherita Municipal Board Executive Officer Bikram Sharma, a sub-inspector from Margherita Police Station, and officials from the municipal board and police.
Inspections were conducted at shops and commercial establishments near Margherita College, PM Shri Town High School, Margherita Public Higher Secondary School, Margherita Town Public Primary School and Mahabir Das Hindi Lower Primary School.
Officials checked compliance with restrictions on tobacco sales within the prescribed 100-yard radius of educational institutions, as well as regulations governing the display and advertisement of tobacco products. Action was taken against violations, including the seizure of prohibited items wherever applicable.
Shopkeepers and business owners were also briefed on COTPA provisions and the importance of preventing children and young people from accessing tobacco products.
The Margherita Co-District Administration said regular monitoring and periodic enforcement drives would continue to ensure compliance with tobacco control laws and protect students from exposure to tobacco.