In its objections statement on a petition alleging failure of the government to ban sale of tobacco around educational institutions, the Palike has stated that a sensitive drive in accordance with the provisions of Control of Tobacco Products Act, 2003 (COTPA). The series of programmes under this Act has been implemented. The series of programmes included workshops for principals of various BBMP schools and colleges. The Palike said only 18 principals from 45 educational institutions attended this half-day programme.
The Cancer Patients’ Aid Association has filed the petition. The Palike also formed a club with 34 members, but no activities were ever conducted by this club and the reason stated for this were exams and holidays. The High Court earlier had asked the BBMP to file a report on the number of shops selling tobacco near educational institutions. The Court had also directed the State to issue a circular prohibiting sale of tobacco products within a radius of 100 yards of educational institutions.
Chief Justice J S Khehar and Justice Manjula Chellur gave four weeks for the petitioners to file counter objections.
