Karnataka Government Passes Bill Increasing Minimum Age for Cigarette Sales to 21

In a significant move aimed at curbing youth tobacco consumption, the Karnataka government has successfully passed the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Manufacture, Supply and Distribution) (Karnataka Amendment) Bill 2024. The bill, approved in the Assembly on Wednesday, mandates an increase in the minimum age for purchasing cigarettes from 18 to 21 years across the state.

Health Minister Dinesh Gundurao, addressing the Assembly, emphasized the critical need to restrict access to cigarettes among young individuals. He underscored that the sale of cigarettes to individuals under 21 years of age is now strictly prohibited, reflecting the government’s commitment to public health and the well-being of its citizens.

Furthermore, Minister Gundurao highlighted additional provisions within the bill to regulate the sale and distribution of tobacco products. Notably, cigarettes are prohibited from being sold within 100 meters of educational institutions. To address concerns raised by small traders, the fine for violations has been capped at Rs. 1,000.

In addition to measures aimed at tobacco control, the Karnataka government has implemented a ban on hookah bars in all bars, restaurants, and other public establishments. Minister Gundurao outlined stringent penalties for unauthorized operation, including imprisonment ranging from one to three years and fines ranging from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1 lakh.

Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, addressing the Legislative Council, underscored the importance of maintaining the integrity and autonomy of states within India’s federal structure. He cautioned against any attempts by the central government to weaken state powers, emphasizing the need for genuine cooperative federalism.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reaffirmed the significance of the federal system in upholding the security and stability of the nation, urging the central government to honor its commitment to cooperative federalism. His remarks reflect growing concerns among state leaders regarding the balance of power between the center and states.

The passage of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Bill, coupled with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s defense of state autonomy, highlights Karnataka’s proactive stance on public health and its commitment to preserving the principles of federalism within the Indian political framework.