Jammu, Oct 3: The Jammu and Kashmir administration has banned the storage, sale, display, and distribution of the smokeless tobacco product ‘Cool Lip’ in Kathua district with immediate effect, citing growing health concerns, especially among children and youth.
The order, issued by Kathua District Magistrate Rajesh Sharma, invoked powers under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, stating that the move was necessary to protect public health and safety. Officials have been instructed to ensure strict compliance, including the Senior Superintendent of Police, Chief Education Officer, tehsildars, naib tehsildars, and the designated food safety officer.
Authorities took the step following reports that students were consuming Cool Lip, leading to intoxication and posing risks to both physical and mental health, while also disrupting the educational environment.
The ban references Clause 2.3.4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restriction on Sales) Regulations, 2011, which prohibits the use of tobacco and nicotine in food products. District Magistrate Sharma highlighted the potential carcinogenic and oral health risks, making the prohibition imperative.
The order will remain in effect until further notice and has been widely circulated through print, electronic, and social media to raise public awareness. Cool Lip, a smokeless tobacco product sold in small pouches, is typically kept under the lip to induce a high.
Authorities have urged parents, teachers, and community members to cooperate in ensuring the product is removed from circulation in the district.