IMPHAL, Oct 28: The Government of Manipur has announced a comprehensive ban on the manufacture, storage, distribution, and sale of Gutkha, Pan Masala, and other chewing tobacco products containing tobacco or nicotine across the state for a period of one year, effective immediately.
The order, issued by Sumant Singh, Commissioner of Food Safety and Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Health & Family Welfare), invokes provisions under the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restriction on Sales) Regulations, 2011, and the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The move aims to safeguard public health from the harmful effects of tobacco-laced food products.
The prohibition extends to all variants of Gutkha, Pan Masala, Chaap Tobacco, Pure Tobacco, Khaini, Zarda, and other scented or flavoured tobacco products, regardless of brand or packaging. The order further restricts the sale of tobacco and pan masala sold separately but intended for simultaneous consumption, a common practice among users.
The decision comes in compliance with the Supreme Court’s 2016 directive in the Central Areca-nut Marketing Corporation vs. Union of India case, which mandated all states and union territories to ensure a total ban on gutkha and similar tobacco-based products.
Emphasizing the public health risks posed by such products, the Commissioner of Food Safety stated that the action has been taken “in the interest of public health,” warning that strict legal measures will be enforced against violators under the Food Safety and Standards Act.
The ban will remain effective for one year from the date of issue, covering the entire state of Manipur.
