Boleng, Jun 20: In a concerted push to enforce the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, and reduce tobacco use, the Siang district administration has launched a series of rigorous awareness-cum-enforcement drives across its key subdivisions through the active involvement of block-level anti-drug committees.
In Boleng, a surprise raid led by EAC Shanti Mize targeted shops selling tobacco products within 100 yards of educational institutions, a violation of Section 6 of COTPA. Several violators were penalized, and the confiscated tobacco items were destroyed on the spot.
At Rumgong, ADC Kesang P Goiba led a comprehensive campaign that included a coordination meeting with the district school safety squad, education department officials, and teaching staff.
Students and local vendors were sensitised to the health hazards of tobacco use and the legal requirements under COTPA.
A similar enforcement and awareness drive was conducted in Kaying by the block anti-drug team, comprising EAC Pooza Sonam, police officials, representatives of ArSRLM, BRCC, CRCC, and members of community bodies such as the Adi Bane Kebang (ABK) and Adi Baane Ane Kebang (ABAK).
The team urged community vigilance to ensure compliance with the law, especially around school zones.
In Pangin town, town magistrate Niyang Pertin, along with Dr Tonu Taki, medical superintendent, and the officer-in-charge of Pangin police station, led a coordinated raid and awareness campaign.
Shops violating the tobacco-free zone rule were fined, and tobacco items were destroyed. Simultaneously, awareness programmes were conducted for students and vendors.
Siang deputy commissioner P N Thungon reaffirmed the district’s resolve to maintain strict COTPA enforcement.
