IMPHAL, Oct 23:   The Manipur government has announced a one-year ban on the manufacture, storage, distribution, and sale of Gutkha, Pan Masala containing tobacco or nicotine, and other chewing tobacco products like Chaap Tobacco, Pure Tobacco, Khaini, Zarda, and Scented/Flavored Tobacco. This ban, which takes immediate effect, was detailed in a notification issued by Vineet Joshi, Chief Secretary and Commissioner of Food Safety, Manipur, under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

The ban also includes any products marketed separately with tobacco or nicotine that allow consumers to mix them, thereby bypassing the prohibition. The action is based on the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restriction on Sales) Regulations, 2011, aimed at protecting public health from harmful food ingredients. Earlier, the Supreme Court observed that some manufacturers were evading the ban by selling pan masala and tobacco in separate packs for consumers to mix.

The government emphasized that these products pose significant health risks, and their prohibition is meant to safeguard public health. The Commissioner of Food Safety is responsible for enforcing the ban, guided by Section 18(1)(a) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The Supreme Court has also directed all states and union territories to ensure strict enforcement of the ban.