Meghalaya Police have issued over 1,000 challans across the state as part of a heightened enforcement campaign. The drive, which began earlier this month, is aimed at strictly implementing the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, particularly in public spaces.
According to police officials, this operation was initiated in response to rising complaints about people smoking in crowded areas, near schools, and inside public transport. The authorities hope to reduce second-hand smoke exposure and discourage tobacco use among young citizens.
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State-wide crackdown gains momentum
The campaign spans multiple districts, including East Khasi Hills, West Garo Hills, Ri Bhoi, and South West Khasi Hills. Police teams have been patrolling bus stands, markets, public parks, and school vicinities, issuing fines on the spot to those caught smoking.
Superintendent of Police (SP), East Khasi Hills, said that over 300 challans were issued in Shillong alone. The crackdown was conducted in coordination with the Health Department and various local municipalities to ensure compliance.
“We are not just collecting fines,” the SP noted. “Our goal is to spread awareness about the dangers of public smoking, especially for children and older people exposed to second-hand smoke.”
Fines under COTPA
Under COTPA, smoking in public places is prohibited, and violators can be fined up to ₹200. Repeat offenders can face higher penalties or other legal consequences.
Apart from issuing fines, police also handed out educational leaflets about tobacco-related health hazards. Officials confirmed that they visited schools and colleges to sensitise students about the risks of smoking and chewing tobacco.
While some offenders complied immediately, others were surprised by the action. However, most citizens welcomed the initiative, calling it a much-needed step for public health.
Public health groups support the initiative
Various NGOs and public health advocates have praised the Meghalaya Police for stepping up enforcement. According to the Voluntary Health Association of Meghalaya (VHAM), tobacco use among teenagers in the state has been rising, and stronger action is necessary to reverse the trend.
A VHAM spokesperson said, “Challans alone won’t solve the problem, but they send a powerful message that the government is serious about protecting people from the harm caused by tobacco.”
The group also requested that the state government expand the campaign to include anti-tobacco messages in schools and colleges as part of the academic curriculum.
A growing concern in the Northeast
Tobacco usage rates in northeastern states like Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Nagaland have consistently remained higher than the national average. According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS), Meghalaya ranks among the top states for tobacco consumption.
Authorities are now viewing this crackdown as part of a broader effort to build a healthier Meghalaya. Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh recently remarked that public cooperation is crucial to making these efforts sustainable.
She stated, “We can’t expect police to monitor every street corner every day. Citizens also have a responsibility to report violations and support tobacco-free environments.”
Mixed reactions from the public
The campaign has received mixed feedback from the public. While many supported it, some expressed concern over selective enforcement.
In certain areas, residents said that warnings should have been issued first, especially for older people who may not be aware of the rules. Police have assured that moving forward, first-time offenders will be educated before being penalised.
To address these concerns, the police department has begun airing radio ads and posting updates on social media to inform the public about designated no-smoking zones.
Way forward: making Meghalaya tobacco-free
Officials have indicated that this anti-smoking drive will not be a one-time event. Instead, it will be carried out in phases throughout the year, with each phase targeting specific public spaces.
In the next phase, authorities plan to inspect government buildings, hospitals, and educational institutions for tobacco compliance.
Moreover, they are encouraging shopkeepers to avoid selling cigarettes and tobacco products near schools and playgrounds. Licensing actions and shop closures could follow for those who break the rules.
The Health Department has also proposed setting up more tobacco cessation centres in major hospitals. These centres will provide counselling and medical support for those who want to quit smoking or chewing tobacco.
A senior police officer summarised the state’s strategy: “Challans are just the start. Our mission is to shift public mindset. If people understand the long-term consequences, the need for enforcement will naturally decline.”
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