Delhi govt’s anti-tobacco drive loses steam

There has been a year-on-year drop of 69% in the amount collected as fine by the Delhi government’s anti-tobacco raiding squad. The total amount collected last year was 75% less than what the squad collected in 2010. Rhythma Kaul reports.

There has been a year-on-year drop of 69% in the amount collected as fine by the Delhi government’s anti-tobacco raiding squad. The total amount collected last year was 75% less than what the squad collected in 2010.

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A mere Rs 3,82,955 was collected last year, while the figures were Rs 12,19,680 in 2011 and Rs 15,20,557 in 2010, clearing hinting that the state’s enforcement of tobacco control laws is losing steam.

The data was released by the Delhi government’s department of health and family welfare on the occasion of World No Tobacco Day on May 31.

“The Commonwealth Games were held in 2010-11, and there were special anti-tobacco drives on across the city in view of the event,” said AK Walia, the Delhi health minister.

The number of persons fined for smoking in public places and in public vehicles was also nearly three times higher in the years 2010 and 2011 as compared to last year, in which only 4,360 persons were fined for violating the law.

Acknowledging there is more effort required, Walia said that the desired goal of protecting minors from accessing any tobacco product and protect the rights of non-smokers.