Una, August 06: Prioritizing public health and safety, Una District Magistrate Jatin Lal has issued an order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, banning the storage, transportation, distribution, supply, display, and sale of flavored smokeless tobacco products in the district with immediate effect.
This decision is based on a proposal submitted by the Chief Medical Officer, Una, as well as inspection, seizure, and laboratory test reports. These reports revealed the presence of flavoring agents (including menthol), additives, and humectants in certain smokeless tobacco products; these ingredients enhance the product's taste, cooling sensation, and overall appeal, making consumption more attractive. Furthermore, the easy availability of such products in the district's retail market raises concerns regarding increased consumption among adolescents, youth, and other vulnerable groups.
Under the order, all such flavored smokeless tobacco products—including 'Cool Lip Filter Tobacco'—designed to enhance taste, aroma, cooling sensation, or acceptability, are prohibited in the district. All wholesalers, retailers, distributors, and transporters have been directed to immediately cease all activities related to the storage, transportation, distribution, supply, display, and sale of these products.
To ensure the effective implementation of this order, the Superintendent of Police (Una), all Executive Magistrates, Food Safety Officers, and other concerned departments have been instructed to maintain strict vigilance and ensure action is taken in accordance with the law. Violators will face action under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (2023), Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (2003), Food Safety and Standards Act (2006), and other applicable laws. The Deputy Commissioner stated that flavored smokeless tobacco products can lead to nicotine addiction and encourage the initiation of tobacco use, thereby adversely affecting public health. The ban on the availability of such products aims to protect the youth and other vulnerable groups from the harmful effects of tobacco and to ensure a healthy and safe environment in the district.
This order comes into force with immediate effect and will remain valid for 60 days from the date of issuance, unless amended, revoked, or extended in accordance with the law.
The district administration has also appealed to the general public to cooperate in this effort to safeguard public health by reporting any instances of storage, transportation, distribution, or sale of the banned products to the concerned authorities.