ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of National Health Services (NHS) has written a letter to the inspectors general of police (IGPs) across the country, advising them to play their role in the enforcement of laws related to tobacco advertisement.

In the letter, available with Dawn, it is mentioned that tobacco use is the single largest preventable cause of death in the world.

“In Pakistan, tobacco is the cause of death of around 166,000 people every year. The youth are being targeted by the tobacco industry so that ‘replacement smokers’ could be recruited. Around 1,200 children between the age of six and 15 years start smoking every day.

“The government has issued tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship guidelines under the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non Smokers Health Ordinance 2002. According to an SRO dated Jan 30, 2020, there is a ban on tobacco product advertisements, promotion and sponsorship,” it added.

It is pertinent to mention that provincial governments and the ICT administration are empowered to enforce tobacco control laws in their jurisdiction. Police officers (ASI and above) are authorised to take action against violators of the aforesaid laws/ordinance.

Violation of Section 7 are cognisable and bailable offence and can be trialed by the magistrate first class.

“It will be highly appreciated if directions are issued to relevant authorities to ensure the tobacco control laws enforcement,” letter concluded.

Technical Head of the Tobacco Control Cell at the Ministry of NHS Dr Ziauddin told Dawn that according to rules tobacco products cannot be advertised at the point of sale but a large number of retailers were observed violating the law.

“That is why we have written letters to all the IGPs to ensure implementation of the law and protect the youth from the hazards of smoking,” he said.

Confirmation of inspectors, SIs

Meanwhile, Islamabad police have issued a confirmation list of 38 inspectors and 141 sub-inspectors (SIs).

Following directions of Inspector General of Police Mohammad Aamir Zulfiqar Khan, a meeting of a committee headed by the DIG (headquarters) was held at Central Police Office. The committee approved the confirmation list and issued it.

The issuance of the list would help ensure merit in the force and encourage the police officials.

Published in Dawn, December 21st, 2020