
The Eastern Division police registered 324 cases under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) and booked 334 minor cases during a special enforcement drive conducted on the occasion of No Smoking Day.
The operation was conducted on March 11 under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner of Police Vikram Amate. As part of the event, 68 police teams were formed in the Eastern Division.
Police conducted surprise checks at 801 establishments, including small shops, bakeries, spice shops and hotels near schools and colleges.
Officials said the event was aimed at enforcing tobacco control laws and creating public awareness about the harmful effects of smoking and tobacco consumption, especially around educational institutions.
The police also appealed to the public to strictly observe the legal provisions related to the sale and use of tobacco products. Officials added that similar special drives will continue in the coming days to protect public health and maintain law and order.
Published – 12 March 2026 19:19 IST





