MAPUSA
Cracking down on the open sale and display of tobacco products, the Anjuna panchayat carried out a surprise inspection across the village, seizing tobacco products from shops and roadside stalls found violating tobacco control regulations.
The inspection was led by Anjuna Sarpanch Surendra Govekar, accompanied by the panchayat secretary and staff.
The team visited several commercial establishments to check whether tobacco products were being displayed openly in violation of the law.
During the drive, tobacco products that were allegedly kept on open display were seized by the panchayat authorities. Officials said the action was aimed at discouraging the easy visibility and accessibility of tobacco products, particularly to children and adolescents.
"The open display of tobacco products can influence young minds and encourage the initiation of tobacco use at an early age. Such practices are not in the interest of public health and will not be tolerated," Govekar stated.
The panchayat clarified that the seized tobacco products will be released only after the concerned shopkeepers pay the prescribed penalty and produce the necessary documents as required under the relevant regulations.
The sarpanch said the panchayat is committed to creating a healthier environment in the village and will continue to conduct surprise inspections to ensure compliance with tobacco control norms.
The panchayat also appealed to all shopkeepers to strictly adhere to the applicable tobacco control regulations and refrain from openly displaying tobacco products.
It urged parents and guardians to educate children about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption and support efforts to make Anjuna a tobacco-free village.
Officials warned that similar enforcement drives will continue and that strict action will be taken against establishments found violating the rules.
