Consumers’ Forum demands ban on sale & manufacture of gutka, pan masala in Assam

Nov. 21: Consumption of chewing materials containing tobacco is regarded as one of the prime causes of oral cancer. Assam has an average tobacco consumption of 48.2%  which is almost double of the national average of 28.6 percent. In order to curb the consumption of tobacco in the state, the Consumers’ Legal Protection Forum of Assam has demanded the extension of the prohibition order for manufacture, storage, transportation, distribution and sale of Gutka, Pan Masala or any chewing materials etc. that contains tobacco and/or nicotine.

In this connection, the Consumers’ Legal Protection Forum of Assam has submitted a memorandum to the state Commissioner  & Secretary, Health and Family Welfare Department. It needs mention here that the earlier order of prohibition will expire on 22 November, 2020. As such, the Forum has appealed for a fresh ban again on these substances.