Jamshedpur, April 22: As a step against spread of Covid-19 pandemic, State health department on Wednesday banned sale of tobacco products across state on the assumption that their use would lead to a tendency to spit causing the spread of the virus.
An official of the department said that the decision has been taken in view of fear of spread of the virus due to spitting. Chewing and use of tobacco can lead to serious diseases like Covid-19, encephalitis, tuberculosis etc. In line with the Union home ministry directive dated April 15, 2020 for Covid-19 management making spitting in public places a punishable offence and as per the power enshrined under Disaster Management Act 2005 article 10 (2) sub clause (1), the government has decided to ban sale and use of tobacco products in public places till further order.
The directive issued on Wednesday to the deputy commissioners and police heads in the 24 districts cites that the use of tobacco is a global health concern and the spitting after use of tobacco products is a public health hazards in view of Covid-19 pandemic and sale of tobacco products like cigarette, bidis, pan masala, areca nuts, khaini, jarda etc and directs for strict compliance of the order with immediate effect.
The East Singhbhum district administration has decided to ensure prohibition of sale of tobacco products across the district.
� Some NGOs have decided to support and partner with us in our endeavour. As per their plans posters banners will be put up to educate people against use of tobacco products as it would have harmful effects on their health. I think this will help in spreading greater awareness in the public,� said an official.
In the first phase some hoardings will come up in Bistupur, Jugsalai, Telco, Golmuri, Kadma and Baghbera. �We are voluntarily taking the initiative for a greater cause. We want to set up more such banners across the city,� said an official.
Meanwhile, district administration has also lined up for harsher penalties. Schools and colleges, hospitals, restaurants, cinemas and administrative offices are on the list of public places and posters would also be placed near such public places.
On the other hands openly defying the orders, several shops are doing brisk business. �Everyone wants to make profit with their business and we get the maximum number of customers at this place. When the State administration is not concerned about the issue why should we?� said Madan, a shop owner.
