Raipur: The Purani Bhilai Police on Wednesday launched a special enforcement drive against the sale of tobacco products near educational institutions and hospitals, penalising several vendors under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003.
During the inspection conducted on 5 August 2026, police teams checked shops located within a 100-metre radius of schools, colleges, and healthcare facilities across the Purani Bhilai Police Station limits. Shopkeepers found selling gutkha, cigarettes, and other tobacco products in these restricted areas were fined under the provisions of the COTPA Act.
Police officials issued strict warnings to vendors, directing them not to sell tobacco products near educational and medical institutions. They also warned that stringent legal action would be taken against repeat offenders.
The Durg Police said such special drives will continue on a regular basis to ensure compliance with the law and keep students and youth away from substance abuse.
The police have appealed to citizens and local traders to strictly follow COTPA guidelines and refrain from selling prohibited tobacco products near restricted premises, helping create a drug-free environment for the younger generation.
