PASWA seeks strict ban on gutkha, tobacco, and cigarettes in Jharkhand

THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK

Ranchi, Jan 16: PASWA National President Alok Kumar Dubey has written to Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren and All India Congress Committee General Secretary, as well as Jharkhand Pradesh Congress Committee in-charge, Ghulam Ahmed Mir, urging them to ensure the effective implementation of the ban on gutkha, tobacco, and cigarettes in the state.

In his letter, Dubey highlighted that despite the Jharkhand government’s previous order banning gutkha, tobacco, and cigarettes, their sale and consumption continue openly. He stressed that this violates government directives and poses a severe threat to the health of children and youth in the state.

Concern over growing trend of school students and young people consuming gutkha

Dubey raised particular concern over the growing trend of school students and young people consuming gutkha, tobacco, and other intoxicants after school hours. He noted that this issue has become a significant worry for parents, cutting across all social and economic classes. In some cases, he warned children under mental stress—often due to punishment—resort to tragic steps like suicide.

Additionally, he pointed out that addiction to tobacco and gutkha often acts as a gateway for young people to move toward more harmful drugs. This transition increases the risk of intravenous drug use, leading to the potential spread of life-threatening diseases like HIV/AIDS.

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He appealed to Ghulam Ahmed Mir and the Chief Minister to ensure strict enforcement of the ban on gutkha, tobacco, and cigarettes. He also called for a special campaign to crack down on the illegal drug trade to safeguard the younger generation and ensure a healthier and safer future for the youth of Jharkhand.

The PASWA President expressed hope for positive action from Ghulam Ahmed Mir, emphasizing the need to protect the health of Jharkhand’s citizens and foster positive societal change.

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