With an aim to protect public health from the harmful effects of tobacco-laced products, the state government has imposed a statewide ban on the sale, distribution, and manufacture of Gutkha, Pan Masala, and other chewing tobacco products containing tobacco or nicotine for a period of one year, effective immediately.
The ban covers all forms of Gutkha, Pan Masala, Chaap Tobacco, Pure Tobacco, Khaini, Zarda, and scented or flavoured tobacco, irrespective of brand or packaging style. It also prohibits the sale of tobacco and pan masala marketed separately but often sold together in a manner that enables consumers to mix them easily, according to a recent order issued by Commissioner of Food Safety and Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Health & Family Welfare) Sumant Singh.
The decision follows the Supreme Court’s 2016 directive in the Central Areca-nut Marketing Corporation vs. Union of India case, which urged states and union territories to ensure total compliance with the ban on gutkha and similar products containing tobacco and nicotine.
The Commissioner of Food Safety emphasized that the measure is taken “in the interest of public health” and warned of strict action against violators under the relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act. The ban will remain in force for one year from the date of issue of the notification, covering the entire state of Manipur.
