The ban on the sale of gutkha, pan masala and other chewing tobacco-based products in Uttarakhand came into effect from Tuesday.
“This is a comprehensive ban on the sale, stocking and production of gutkha and all other tobacco chewing products in Uttarakhand,” a top government official said.
Most of the shopkeepers and vendors in Dehradun city, said they were not selling gutkha or any other tobbaco-based products anymore.
Health Minister Surinder Singh Negi said the government would strictly enforce the ban on the sale of gutkha and similar products in the state.
Official sources said a move is afoot to impose a fine of up to Rs 2 lakh on anyone found selling tobacco-based products in the state.
In October last year, the health department had decided to ban the sale of gutkha in the state.
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But within hours, the state cabinet deferred the decision till December 31, following representations made by traders to clear piled up stocks.
The ban on tobacco-based products was welcomed by social activists.
“This is a good decision which should also be strictly enforced. The wrappers or pouches of gutkha were also spoiling our environment,” said Avadash Kaushal, a renowned environmentalist.