Editor,
I am writing to express my deep concern about the widespread issue of smoking in public areas of our city, particularly in busy markets like Police Bazar, Jail Road, and Polo.
The “Cigarette and Other Tobacco Products Act” (COTPA) of 2003 clearly prohibits smoking in public and the sale of tobacco to minors. However, these laws are unfortunately not being followed as strictly as they should be.
The dangers of smoking and secondhand smoke are well-known. Smoking can lead to serious health problems, including increased mortality rates, chronic bronchitis, heart disease, and adverse effects on pregnant women and newborns. The World Health Organisation emphasises the importance of strong measures to control tobacco use, protect non-smokers, and prevent smoking from becoming a normal activity in our community.
It is disappointing to see that the National Tobacco Control Programme’s Smoke-Free Shillong campaign has not yet achieved its goal. Cigarette butts litter public spaces, and tobacco products are still being sold to and by minors. This situation clearly indicates the need for stricter enforcement of existing anti-smoking laws.
As an educator, I am particularly worried about the impact of smoking on our youth, who are the future of our city. We must create a healthy and safe environment for them to grow and learn.
I urge everyone in Shillong to join forces and take a stand against public smoking. By advocating for the strict enforcement of anti-smoking laws, we can work together to make Shillong a healthier city for everyone.
Pankaj Kumar
Assistant Teacher
RBA Hindi Secondary School
Keating Road, Shillong
