Asks schools, police, Excise Dept, local bodies to strictly enforce child protection laws and report violations
PANAJI
The Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (GSCPCR) has directed educational institutions, law enforcement agencies, the Excise Department and local bodies to strictly enforce laws banning the sale of tobacco products near schools and regulate the sale of alcohol in the interest of child safety and public health.
The Commission reminded authorities that under Section 6(b) of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, the sale of tobacco products within 100 yards of any educational institution is strictly prohibited. It also pointed out that Section 77 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 makes it an offence to give, or cause to be given, intoxicating substances, including tobacco and alcohol, to children.
As part of its directions, the GSCPCR has asked all educational institutions to display boards prominently outside their premises stating that the sale of tobacco products within 100 yards of the institution is prohibited.
Heads of institutions have been instructed to monitor nearby areas and report any violations, including the sale of tobacco products or the unauthorised and illegal sale of alcohol near schools and colleges, to the local police and other concerned authorities.
The Commission has also directed law enforcement agencies to carry out regular inspections within their jurisdictions to identify violations of COTPA and offences under the Juvenile Justice Act, and to take prompt legal action wherever required.
The Excise Department has been asked to review all licensed liquor outlets and ensure they comply with the prescribed distance and location norms for educational institutions. Action has been sought against establishments found violating these rules.
Municipal councils and village panchayats have also been directed to support enforcement efforts by monitoring compliance at the local level, regulating trade licences where applicable, and reporting violations to the relevant authorities.
Stating that the issue directly affects the protection and welfare of children, the GSCPCR said the matter must be treated with the highest priority and seriousness. It warned that any failure to comply with or enforce the rules would invite appropriate action.
