Sri Vijaya Puram, June 15: In a concerted effort to protect the health and well-being of students, the District Administration, South Andaman, has intensified enforcement against the illegal sale and possession of tobacco products in the vicinity of educational institutions. Exercising powers vested under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, a targeted inspection drive was conducted focusing on areas within the 100-meter no-tobacco zone around schools and colleges.
On the second day of enforcement drive, Revenue Officials carried out surprise inspections across multiple locations in the District, with particular emphasis on high-footfall zones such as Bathubasti, Garacharma and Calicut. Several shops operating within these areas were found to be in possession of contraband tobacco products in violation of the COTPA norms. These items were immediately seized and action has been initiated against the violators as per legal provisions.
The drive continued in the Garacharma area, where similar violations were observed. Seized materials were documented and confiscated through formal seizure memos. All erring shopkeepers were strictly cautioned to refrain from any such activity in the future.
The District Administration remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a safe and tobacco-free environment around schools and colleges. All vendors are once again reminded to strictly adhere to the provisions of COTPA, 2003. Regular surprise inspections will be conducted, and any future violations will be dealt with sternly and in accordance with the law.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any instances of illegal tobacco sales, especially within 100 meters of educational institutions, or to seek further information by contacting the District Control Room at 03192-240127 / 238881 / 1070 or via WhatsApp at 9531888844. The District Administration assures that the identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential to ensure their safety and encourage public cooperation.