Press Release from District Hospital Mangan.
A COTPA (Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003) enforcement drive was successfully conducted on 3rd July 2025 at Mangan Bazar by the District NTCP Cell, District Hospital Mangan. The drive was headed by Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Tempo Kaleon, and coordinated by the District Health Educator, Mr. Rinchen Namgyal Bhutia, in close collaboration with the Mangan Nagar Palika and the Police Department.
Objective:
The main objective of the drive was to ensure strict enforcement of the provisions of the COTPA Act, promote awareness among the public, and create a tobacco-free environment in the heart of Mangan town.
Activities Conducted:
The enforcement team visited multiple commercial establishments, shops, and public places within Mangan Bazar. Special emphasis was given to:
• Checking for prohibition of smoking in public places (Section 4).
• Ensuring ban on sale of tobacco products near educational institutions (Section 6).
• Verifying compliance with pictorial health warnings on tobacco product packaging (Section 7).
• Inspecting for absence of direct or indirect advertisements of tobacco products (Section 5).
During the drive, violators were identified and appropriately penalized under the COTPA Act. The police department provided on-ground support for crowd control and enforcement.
Outcomes:
• A total of 11 challans were issued to violators for smoking in public places and illegal sale of tobacco products.
• A cumulative fine of ₹2200 was collected on the spot from the offenders.
• Several verbal warnings were also issued to shopkeepers found in minor violation or in need of further sensitization.
Sensitization & Awareness:
In addition to enforcement, the team engaged with the public and local shopkeepers to spread awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco and the legal implications of violating COTPA. IEC (Information, Education & Communication) materials were distributed to reinforce the message of tobacco control and encourage community participation in maintaining a tobacco-free marketplace.
Conclusion:
The enforcement drive was a successful interdepartmental effort that reinforced the district administration’s commitment to tobacco control and public health. It also served as a deterrent against future violations and educated the community about their role in creating a Tobacco-Free Mangan.
The District NTCP Cell plans to conduct similar enforcement activities across other bazar areas and educational institutions in the coming weeks as part of its sustained efforts under the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP).
