Despite ban, cigarettes openly sold near schools

The government must prioritise initiatives aimed at safeguarding the younger generation from the hazards of tobacco use. The High Court has mandated that cigarette vendors maintain a distance of at least 20 yards from educational institutions. However, there is a growing trend of flouting this regulation.

Smoking and Tobacco Control Act 2005 stipulates that individuals under the age of 18 are prohibited from selling tobacco or tobacco products, or engaging in marketing or distribution thereof. Violators of this provision face a fine of five thousand taka for the first offense, with the penalty doubling for repeat offenses.

Despite these regulations, non-compliance remains prevalent, leading to an increase in the number of cigarette vendors near educational institutions. I urge all relevant stakeholders to address this issue promptly.

Asif Islam

Student,

East West University