Bengaluru police empower all officers to enforce tobacco laws near schools

On World No Tobacco Day, Bengaluru City Police reinforced their commitment to a tobacco-free environment by empowering all police officers to enforce tobacco laws near schools.

Police Commissioner B Dayanand clarified, "While there is no dedicated task force, all police personnel are authorised to act against tobacco-related violations," underscoring the importance of community involvement and interdepartmental coordination in these efforts.

The initiative aims to address the rising concern of tobacco use among students, influenced heavily by peer pressure and media portrayal, as noted by Dr Riaz Bhasha during a panel discussion. He urged youth to raise awareness and explore healthier ways of managing stress, highlighting the role of cultural and religious values in discouraging tobacco consumption.

This collaborative approach brings together doctors, police officials, education leaders, and youth representatives to combat tobacco use in Bengaluru, focusing on prevention and enforcement near educational institutions.

The police's strategy reflects a broader public health goal to create safer, tobacco-free zones around schools, protecting young people from early tobacco exposure and its long-term health risks.

By authorizing all officers to act, Bengaluru police aim to increase vigilance and responsiveness, ensuring that tobacco laws are effectively upheld in school vicinities.

"All police personnel are authorised to act against tobacco-related violations," said Commissioner Dayanand, emphasizing a united front against tobacco use among youth.

This initiative complements ongoing awareness campaigns and community engagement efforts to foster a healthier environment for Bengaluru's students.

Bengaluru police have empowered all officers to enforce tobacco laws near schools, aiming to curb tobacco use among students. Police Commissioner B Dayanand emphasized community involvement and interdepartmental coordination, while experts highlighted peer pressure and media influence as key factors driving youth tobacco consumption.