Faridabad cop challaned for smoking in public

Faridabad, July 7

A Sub-Inspector from the local police department was recently penalised with a Rs 200 challan for smoking in a public place. The challan was issued under the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act-2023 (COTPA).

According to a spokesperson for the police department, Section 4 of the COTPA prohibits smoking in public places. The challan was issued after a complaint surfaced with a photograph showing Sub-Inspector Aas Mohammed smoking at such a location. Upon receiving the complaint, the Commissioner of Police took action and issued the challan.

The Act specifically prohibits smoking in various public places, including hospital buildings, health institutions, entertainment centres, restaurants, hotels, government offices, court buildings, educational institutions, libraries, public vehicles, stadiums, railway stations, bus stops, workplaces, shopping malls, cinema halls, refreshment rooms, pubs, bars, and airport lounges. Any violation of these provisions can result in a challan being issued against the offender.

Furthermore, the Act mandates that public place buildings with a seating capacity of 30 persons or more must provide a designated smoking area or space.