22 challaned under Tobacco Control Act

Tribune News Service

Patiala, May 17

A team of the Health and Family Welfare Department, Patiala, including Anil Kumar, Ram Lal Goyal, led by Nodal Officer for Tobacco Control Cell Malkeet Singh, today inspected various outlets selling tobacco products at the Bhupindera road, PRTC workshop, Nabha road, Bhadson road, Sirhind road and factory area, and challaned 22 shopkeepers for violating the guidelines laid down under the Tobacco Control Act 2003. They collected Rs 4,050 as fine from these violators.

Patiala Civil Surgeon Dr Balwinder Singh informed that they did not have the boards that read “We don’t sell tobacco to anyone who is less than 18 years of age” and “tobacco causes cancer.” He said no laxity would be shown to those violating the Act and such random inspections would help curb the unauthorised sale of tobacco products.