We are familiar with tobacco and its effects on the human body. Though it is a Portuguese crop, India has a long history of using tobacco. In recent years, after noticing its addictive effects, several states in India have banned tobacco products like gutka and paan masala. Recently, Tamil Nadu has decided to extend the ban on these tobacco products; read further for details!
Tamil Nadu Extends Ban On Tobacco & Its Products!
Tamil Nadu has extended its ban on the production, storage, distribution, and sale of chewable food items containing tobacco and nicotine. It was announced by the State Commissioner of Food Safety and Drug Administration. And the ban will be in effect for one year starting from May 23.
According to a report by Mint, this decision was made after the Madras High Court’s order to lift the ban on these products was delayed by the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court has upheld the Madras High Court’s judgement to invalidate a May 2018 notification that prohibited the sale, production, and transit of gutkha and other tobacco-based goods in Tamil Nadu. When the state government appealed the high court’s decision, they accepted the necessity for a wait.
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The Need For This Decision
Senior advocate, Kapil Sibal, appeared for the Tamil Nadu state government. He stated that the government had the authority to protect its citizens’ health. In the lawsuit challenging the Madras High Court’s ruling, the Supreme Court has asked for a response. Senior solicitors speaking for the government and the companies involved in the trading of gutkha and pan masala responded with arguments.
The food safety commissioner’s jurisdiction had been exceeded, according to the high court, which annulled the notification and called into question the propriety of extending such authority in the absence of a legal framework. The state administration underlined the legitimacy of the laws prohibiting the use of tobacco and nicotine in foods as well as the dangers smoking poses to one’s health in its plea.
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The tobacco traders and manufacturers suggested that criminal prosecution for violations of food standards would be more suitable than banning them.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva