In a bid to strengthen the enforcement of the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act 2019 (PECA), the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, has directed the Maharashtra Police to intensify actions against violations of the ban on electronic cigarettes and similar devices. This move comes in response to concerns about the continued sale of e-cigarettes and the need for stricter monitoring.
V Hekali Zhimomi, the additional secretary of the Union Health Ministry, communicated with the Director General of Police (DGP), Maharashtra, urging the issuance of necessary instructions to all police stations in the state. The directive emphasizes the importance of proper implementation of PECA 2019 and instructs officers, not below the rank of Sub Inspector, to take appropriate action against violations.
Key Points of the Directive:
- Stringent Monitoring: The ministry calls for stringent monitoring and enforcement of the ban on electronic cigarettes to curb unauthorized sales.
- Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Collaboration with law enforcement agencies is encouraged to provide data on monthly crime meetings related to violations under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act 2003 (COTPA) and PECA.
- Data Reporting: Data on violations will be uploaded on the IMS portal for monitoring by the health ministry, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Despite the nationwide implementation of PECA 2019, concerns persist about the unauthorized sale of electronic cigarettes. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has underlined the urgent need to control e-cigarettes, citing potential health risks, especially to children and non-smokers. E-cigarettes are not proven to be effective in quitting tobacco use at the population level, and evidence suggests adverse health effects.
Pune City police have already taken action against the illegal sale of e-cigarettes, with several raids resulting in seizures. The recent directive from the health ministry aims to further curb the unauthorized sale and use of electronic cigarettes, aligning with global health recommendations.
