Why Is No Action Taken Against Shopkeepers Selling Cigarettes Near Educational Institutions?
Despite the existence of strict laws prohibiting the sale of tobacco products near schools and colleges, the ground reality remains deeply concerning. Across various areas of Jammu & Kashmir, shopkeepers continue to openly sell cigarettes and other tobacco products not only within close proximity of educational institutions—but at times, shockingly, even to minors.
This is not just a casual violation of rules; it is a direct attack on the health and future of our youth. The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, clearly prohibits the sale of tobacco within 100 yards (approximately 91 meters) of any educational institution. In addition, selling tobacco products to individuals under 18 years of age is also a punishable offense. Yet, in practice, these laws are often ignored or enforced selectively.
Some senior citizens, while talking to Shaharbeen Times, said that Baghat Barzulla has become a hub of education, with several prominent institutions in its vicinity such as Salafia Muslim Institute and Sir Syed College. “It’s alarming to see tobacco being sold near such respected institutions,” one elderly resident remarked. “How can we expect our youth to grow up healthy when such harmful substances are so easily accessible right outside their schools?”
Why this negligence?
The question that disturbs many responsible citizens is: Why is no serious action taken against the erring shopkeepers? Why are these violations overlooked, even when they happen in broad daylight? If there are laws, why is their enforcement weak? The answer perhaps lies in the lack of coordination between government bodies, absence of sustained monitoring, and, quite frankly, societal apathy.
Yes, the Department of Health & Medical Education, under the Jammu & Kashmir government, has initiated awareness campaigns, imposed occasional fines, and formed squads for monitoring. However, the impact of these measures is limited when violators know that consequences are rare and inconsistent. A one-time raid or fine is not enough to deter a shopkeeper whose daily income partially depends on tobacco sales.
The Role of Schools, Parents, and Civil Society
Educational institutions themselves can play a proactive role by reporting violations and working with authorities. Parents must remain vigilant and report shops that are known to sell cigarettes to minors. Local media, too, should regularly highlight this issue—not as a one-time report but as part of a sustained public interest campaign.
What’s at Stake?
It’s not merely about enforcing a law. It’s about saving our children from a dangerous addiction. Children who are exposed to smoking at an early age are more likely to develop long-term health complications such as respiratory diseases, heart issues, and even cancer. Moreover, the early exposure normalizes smoking, making it harder to discourage as they grow older.
A Call to Action
It is high time for district administrations, police departments, school managements, and local communities to come together and ensure strict implementation of COTPA. A zero-tolerance policy towards tobacco sale near schools must be adopted. Surveillance cameras, surprise inspections, awareness drives, and community-led reporting mechanisms could collectively build pressure on these shopkeepers to comply with the law.
The health of our children must never be compromised for the sake of convenience or profit. Let this not become another issue we discuss only after it’s too late.
