Tobacco Products Seized During Drive Against Sale Near Schools in Qalamabad Handwara – Alfaaz – The Words

Murtaza Mushtaq

Qalamabad (Handwara): In a move to safeguard young minds from the harmful reach of tobacco, authorities in Qalamabad launched a special drive against the sale of tobacco products near educational institutions.

The operation, jointly carried out by Handwara Police and the First Class Magistrate Qalamabad, Showket Ahmad Rather, focused on shops operating within a 100-meter radius of schools and colleges, a violation under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003.

During the drive, several tobacco products, including beedis and related items, were seized, while two shopkeepers were fined for breaching the law. The inspection, led by SHO Police Station Qalamabad Mohammad Ashraf Bonyari under the supervision of the Magistrate, was conducted in a transparent and lawful manner.

Shopkeepers were counseled about the health hazards of tobacco and reminded of their legal responsibility to refrain from selling such products within restricted zones or to minors.

The initiative, widely appreciated by the local community, reflects a growing resolve to create a clean and healthy environment for students. Residents lauded the efforts of Magistrate Showket Ahmad Rather and SHO Bonyari for taking tangible steps toward curbing the menace.

Officials said similar drives will continue across the Police District Handwara to ensure strict enforcement of tobacco control laws and promote a tobacco-free future for the next generation.