Students at risk: 100 per cent violation of tobacco ban

The results of the study were released on Thursday, coinciding with World No Tobacco Day, by the Tamil Nadu People’s for Tobacco Control (TNPFTC). TNPFTC had surveyed as many as 33 schools in the city – both private and government – to study the interference of tobacco within the 100 yards of these schools.

The results of the study revealed a complete violation of the clause of COPTA that prohibits the sale of tobacco-related products in the 100-yard radius of educational institutions. The other results included smoking around schools (68 per cent). While Section 5 of COTPA prohibits direct and indirect advertisement of tobacco products, the study showed that indirect advertisement was seen near the schools (13.2 per cent) and direct advertisement was being displayed at the eye level of the school children (16.7 per cent). Ninety per cent of shops did not have ‘No Smoking- Smoking is an offence’ signage and 97.2 per cent of shops didn’t have ‘sale of tobacco products to a person under the age of 18 years is a punishable offence’ signage with a pictorial warning — both are mandatory.

Talking to DT Next, Cyril Alexander, state convener, TNPFTC, said that the implications of the study were far and wide. “The study shows the need for strict enforcement and immediate steps must be taken to remove tobacco products. Teachers think that there are no tobacco products being sold and they are only considering gutkha and pan masala. But the sale of these items are banned in the entire state. In these shops, beedis and cigarettes are also sold. Departments, including Health and Police, should take prompt action to ensure these are not sold. Direct advertisements are happening at the behest of these shops to ensure that the students turn tobacco consumers,” he said.

He added that on contrary to the assumption that the school authorities, the institutional heads have a huge role to play. “They can ensure that action is taken, form committees to look into the sale of tobacco and see to it that the various clauses under COTPA are followed, by reporting to authorities concerned,” he added.

The TNPFTC also launched a Green Line Campaign partnering with other organisations to ensure a tobacco-free school zone.