The Jammu and Kashmir administration has implemented a significant ban on tobacco products in Katra, the town that serves as the base camp for the revered Vaishno Devi shrine. This initiative, effective immediately, prohibits the sale, possession, and consumption of cigarettes, gutka, and all other tobacco products within Katra’s boundaries.
Tobacco Products Banned In J&K’s Katra Region
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The primary aim behind this ban is to uphold the sanctity and cleanliness of the holy site. The Vaishno Devi temple attracts thousands of pilgrims every month, and the administration is committed to ensuring a respectful and serene environment for them. Tobacco use, particularly littering of cigarette butts and discarded chewing tobacco, can detract from the spiritual ambience of the pilgrimage.
The ban, implemented under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, covers a wide area. It encompasses the storage, sale, and consumption of tobacco products from the entry checkpoints at Numai and Panthal, all the way to the holy shrine itself (Bhawan) via the Tara Court route. This effectively creates a tobacco-free zone encompassing the entire pilgrimage path, ensuring a clean and fresh atmosphere for devotees throughout their journey.
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Strict Enforcement Measures Announced
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The Jammu administration banned the sale and consumption of tobacco products alongside existing bans on meat and alcohol. This move strengthens their commitment to creating a respectful and pure environment for Vaishno Devi pilgrims.
The ban also promotes public health by discouraging tobacco use near the shrine. It sends a clear message, especially to young people, about the importance of healthy living.
To ensure compliance, the Jammu administration implements strict enforcement measures. Regular checks will be conducted and penalties issued to violators. This firm approach emphasizes their determination to make Katra completely tobacco-free.
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The ban has been met with positive reactions from various quarters. Devotees have welcomed the move, acknowledging its contribution to a cleaner and more spiritually uplifting pilgrimage experience. Public health advocates have also lauded the initiative, highlighting its potential health benefits.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (Representative Image)
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