Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 14 June 2025
In a decisive move to promote a healthier environment for students, the District Administration of South Andaman has launched a targeted inspection drive to curb the illegal sale and possession of tobacco products near schools and colleges.
Acting under the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, Revenue Officials carried out surprise inspections across multiple high-footfall zones, including Aberdeen Bazaar and School Line, focusing on areas within the 100-yard no-tobacco buffer zone mandated by the Act.
During the operation, several shops were found stocking contraband tobacco products in clear violation of COTPA regulations. The illicit items were promptly seized, and action has been initiated against the violators as per legal provisions. In the School Line area, similar violations were detected, leading to the formal confiscation of banned products and issuance of strict warnings to the offending vendors.
The District Administration has reiterated its firm commitment to maintaining a tobacco-free environment around educational institutions. Officials have warned that such inspection drives will continue to be conducted regularly and that any future violations will invite strict legal action.
To strengthen community participation, the public has been urged to report any instances of illegal tobacco sales near schools and colleges. Reports and queries can be directed to the District Control Room via phone at 03192-240127 / 238881 / 1070 or through WhatsApp at 9531888844. The administration has assured that the identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential.