As many as 1,82,000 people have been fined across Karnataka for violating the Smoking Prohibition Act in Public Places between April and September 2025, under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Control) Act, 2003, said V.S. Ugrappa, Chairman of the Committee on Control of Exploitation, Violence and Rape of Women and Children.
Speaking at a recent review meeting on the implementation of the Committee’s recommendations, Ugrappa said that 2,470 individuals were penalised for smoking within 100 metres of schools and colleges. “These violations generate fines amounting to around ₹45 lakh every year,” he noted, adding that the Health Department has been directed to collect specific data on offenders below 21 years of age. He said efforts are being made to keep youth under the age of 21 away from addictions such as smoking, alcohol, and drug use. About one lakh young people have received counselling between April and September through de-addiction centres, in collaboration with the Health Department and NIMHANS. The Telemanas 14416 helpline has also been launched to provide counselling and assistance to youth affected by substance abuse.
Ugrappa also urged visual media outlets to curb the glorification or sensationalism of issues such as rape, violence against women, and suicide. He advised strict adherence to Press Council guidelines, and called for action under relevant laws such as the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986, Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, or Films Act, depending on the nature of the violation. He further recommended close coordination between the Women’s Commission and the Information Department on such matters.
