Maharashtra set to tighten laws related to sale of gutkha and tobacco products

Addressing members of the legislative council, FDA minister Girish Bapat said existing laws are inadequate to tackle this menace

The state government is now planning to tighten laws related to the sale of gutkha and tobacco products. Addressing the members of the legislative council, Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) minister Girish Bapat said that the existing laws are inadequate to tackle this menace.

Soon, shops selling eatables such as biscuits or milk will not be allowed to sell tobacco products. (HT File Photo)

“We are introducing a law, according to which, those who sell gutkha will face three years of imprisonment,” Bapat said.

As per the current law, the accused can be convicted for up to six months. However, many manage to secure bail within days of the arrest.

The central government has already given a green signal and the amendment to the law will be brought into effect soon, said Bapat.

The issue was raised by Opposition leader Dhananjay Munde, who expressed concern regarding the rise in death rates amongst youngsters due to the use of gutkha.

“Despite being banned, gutkha continues to be sold and the culprits get away with it. Much of this comes in from the neighbouring states,” said Munde.

Shops selling eatables such as biscuits or milk will not be allowed to sell tobacco products, he said, adding that anyone found in violation of this will face an imprisonment of up to seven years.