The Karnataka government has recently implemented crucial changes to its tobacco laws with the introduction of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Bill, 2024. This legislation, known as the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Manufacture, Supply and Distribution) (Karnataka Amendment) Bill. 

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During the assembly session, Health Minister Dinesh Gundurao highlighted the importance of the amendment, emphasizing the strict prohibition of cigarette sales to individuals under 21 in the state. The age limit, which previously stood at 18 years, has now been raised to 21 years. Notably, the sale of cigarettes within a 100-meter radius of schools is now banned to underage smoking. Minister Gundurao addressed concerns of small traders by capping the fine for violations at Rs. 1,000, a significant reduction from the initially proposed Rs. 10,000.

Source: India.com

The bill also takes a stand on hookah bars, prohibiting their operation in any establishment, including eateries, pubs, or restaurants. Severe penalties, including imprisonment ranging from one to three years and fines from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1 lakh, await those operating unauthorized hookah bars. 

Minister Gundurao emphasized the health risks associated with hookah smoking, particularly among the youth who often perceive it as a fashionable trend. He stressed that hookah smoking not only harms those directly involved but also poses risks to passive smokers.

Source: Hindustan Times

Expanding its reach, the bill includes regulations for public places, prohibiting the use of tobacco products, covering both smoking and spitting of tobacco. Exceptions are made for hotels with 30 or more rooms, restaurants with a seating capacity of 30 or more patrons, and airports, where designated smoking areas may be provided.

The primary goal of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Manufacture, Supply and Distribution) (Karnataka Amendment) Bill, 2024, is to safeguard public health, especially that of young individuals, by curbing tobacco use and its associated risks.