On Monday, the Anti-Tobacco Flying Squad Rupa, as part of the Tobacco Free Youth Campaign, conducted surprise checking in shops within Rupa Township to ensure strict compliance with Sections 4, 6a&b, and 7 of the COTPA Act 2003.
During the enforcement drive, the squad seized tobacco products from various shops operating within 100 yards of educational institutions and the main market area of Rupa. Fines were imposed for contravention of different sections of the COTPA Act 2003.
Approximately 2 kilograms of various tobacco products, including cigarettes, biri, gutkha, zarda, nevla, and others, were confiscated.
The surprise checking was led by Shri. Lobsang Tsetan (ADC cum Chairman of Anti-Tobacco Flying Squad Rupa) and included Dr. H M Devi (SMO I/C CHC Rupa), Shri. Sang Dorjee Dirkhipa (District Consultant, DTCC Bomdila), R K Thungon (Asst. Bazaar Secy. Rupa), D K Megiji (CRC Rupa, Edu. Deptt), police personnel, executive members of Sherdukpen Students Union, and Sherdukpen Youth Welfare Association. The Flying Squad officers informed and warned the shopkeepers about the punishable offense under the COTPA 2003 for selling tobacco products within a 100-yard radius of educational institutions and to minors. They directed strict compliance with the TOFEI Guidelines and informed about the mandatory pictorial and health warning on tobacco product packets, non-compliance of which is also a punishable offense under Section 20 of the COTPA. The squad emphasized strict compliance with the COTPA Act, including the prohibition of smoking in public places.
The seized tobacco products were disposed of on the same day under the guidance and supervision of ADC Rupa.
