The Karnataka government has officially prohibited the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products to individuals under the age of 21. This decision was made by the Karnataka government, which introduced a Bill on Tuesday to enforce this ban. The Bill includes penalties of imprisonment ranging from one to three years and fines of up to Rs 1 lakh for any violations.
In addition to this ban, the amended Bill includes a blanket prohibition on using tobacco products in public places. This move underscores the government’s dedication to creating smoke-free environments for all citizens.
Furthermore, the Siddaramaiah-led government has also imposed restrictions on selling cigarettes and other tobacco products within a 100-meter radius of any educational institution. Violators of this rule may face fines of Rs 1,000.
The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) (Karnataka Amendment) Bill 2024, introduced in the Assembly by Home Minister G Parameshwara, amends the central Act of 2003. This amended law not only prohibits the use of tobacco products in public places but also restricts the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products to individuals under the age of 21.
Individuals who violate the provisions of section 4A may face imprisonment for a minimum of one year and a maximum of three years, along with fines ranging from fifty thousand rupees to one lakh rupees.
Additionally, fines of Rs 1,000 have been set for individuals who use hookah bars.