Bandipora: The Executive Magistrate 1st Class, Ajas, has imposed a complete ban on the sale, storage, and offering of tobacco products within a 100-meter radius of all educational institutions under his jurisdiction.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, aims to protect the health and well-being of students and prevent tobacco use among the youth. It has come into immediate effect.
As per the directive, no individual or shopkeeper is allowed to sell, store, or offer tobacco products within 100 meters of any school, college, or educational institution. All vendors currently operating within the restricted zone have been instructed to stop selling such products immediately.
The D.O. Ajas has been directed to strictly enforce the order and take legal action against violators under relevant provisions of the COTPA Act. Locals and educational institutions have been urged to report any violations to the nearest police station or the concerned authority.
The Executive Magistrate warned that any breach of the order would invite strict penal action as per law. The directive, issued in the interest of public health and student welfare, will remain in force until further orders.
Copies of the order have been circulated to the District Magistrate Bandipora, Senior Superintendent of Police Bandipora, SDPO Sumbal, and D.O. Ajas for necessary compliance and implementation.
