Dist police launch anti tobacco awareness program

Metro India News | MAHABUBABAD

In a bid to protect youth, particularly minors from falling prey to tobacco addiction, the Mahabubabad District Police have launched special awareness initiatives across the district. As part of these efforts, an awareness meeting was organized at the IMA Hall in Mahabubabad town with pan shop owners and traders from across the district. District Superintendent of Police (SP) Dr. Shabarish attended the program as the chief guest and delivered key instructions aimed at preventing the sale of tobacco products to minors.

The meeting commenced with the screening of special awareness videos highlighting the harmful effects of cigarettes and tobacco products on human health. The videos explained how toxic chemicals present in cigarettes can severely damage vital organs, including the lungs, heart, and brain. Addressing the gathering, SP Dr. Shabarish emphasized that selling cigarettes, gutka, pan masala and other tobacco products to minors is a punishable offense under the law. 

He directed all pan shop owners to prominently display boards stating, “Tobacco products are not sold to minors,” at their establishments. The SP warned that strict legal action would be taken against those found violating the regulations. He further stated that police inspections would be intensified to ensure compliance and urged traders to cooperate in the campaign against addiction. 

Dr. Shabarish also appealed to the public to support the district police in their efforts to eradicate marijuana (ganja) from the region. He announced that individuals providing information regarding the sale, transportation, storage, or consumption of ganja would have their identities kept confidential. Informants providing useful information would also be eligible for a cash reward of up to Rs 5,000.The public has been encouraged to share information by contacting the police on 8712656999.