Handwara: Handwara Police, in collaboration with the Executive Magistrate Handwara, on Tuesday carried out a special drive in Handwara town, sealing two shops and seizing a substantial quantity of tobacco products.
The operation was launched as part of an ongoing campaign to enforce the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, which strictly prohibits the sale of tobacco products within 100 meters of educational institutions.
Officials said the joint team inspected several shops situated close to schools and colleges to ensure compliance with the law. During the inspection, two shops were found violating COTPA norms and were immediately sealed. The authorities also seized a large cache of tobacco products from the premises.
The action was carried out in the presence of the Executive Magistrate to maintain transparency and due legal procedure. Police officers present on the occasion also sensitized shopkeepers and vendors about the health hazards of tobacco use and the legal consequences of selling such products within restricted zones or to minors.
A senior police officer said that Handwara Police remains committed to maintaining a healthy, drug-free environment for students. “Such drives will continue in all areas of the Police District to ensure strict enforcement of tobacco control laws,” the officer added.
Authorities have also appealed to locals to extend cooperation by reporting any violations to the nearest police station to help build a tobacco-free environment for the youth. [KNT]
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