The Sovima Village Council has taken a decisive stand in enforcing the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) of 2003, in response to reports of tobacco products being sold near educational institutions in the area. According to the Council, shops have been selling cigarettes, Gutka, Talab, Shikar, Rajnigandha, and other tobacco products in close proximity to these institutions, in violation of the Act.
As per COTPA 2003, the sale of cigarettes and tobacco products is prohibited to individuals under the age of 18 and in an area within a radius of 100 yards from any educational institution. In light of this, the Sovima Village Council has resolved to strictly implement the provisions of the law. “Those shops violating these provisions shall be penalized and their trade licenses canceled forthwith,” said Ruokuosilie Rupreo, the Secretary of Sovima Village Council.
In addition to enforcing COTPA 2003, the Council reiterated its earlier resolution to take strong action against individuals selling intoxicants or psychotropic substances within the village jurisdiction. The Council stated that any person found in violation of this rule would be expelled from the village, and the property used for the sale of these banned substances would be seized.
To ensure compliance, youth volunteers, along with the Gaon Buras (GBs) and Village Council Members (VCMs), will conduct regular checks. “Necessary actions will be taken on the spot against defaulters,” added Rupreo.