QUETTA: Civil society organisations and child rights activists in Balochistan on Sunday called on the federal government to halt the fast-tracking of mandatory standards for nicotine-containing, tobacco-free oral products, warning the move could accelerate addiction among youth in the province.

In a joint statement issued by humanitarian groups, youth networks and civil society alliances, the coalition criticised the move and argued that formalising standards for these products risks legitimising their use.

They contended that regulatory frameworks, while intended to control quality, would likely normalise nicotine consumption rather than reduce harm.

Child Rights Movement Balochistan Coordinator Mir Behram Lehri said any policy facilitating access to addictive substances violates basic child protection principles.

“Children and adolescents must be safeguarded from all forms of nicotine exposure,” Mr Lehri said. “This move undermines that responsibility.”

The coalition expressed concern that the push for new standards is driven by industry interests focused on exports and commercial growth, potentially overlooking long-term social consequences.

They noted that Balochistan already struggles with poverty and weak regulatory enforcement, making the population particularly vulnerable to health risks.

AID Balochistan’s Exectuive Director Adil Jahangi warned that mandatory standards could open the door to wider addiction in communities lacking adequate health safeguards.

Media professionals and youth groups echoed these concerns, cautioning that normalising the products sends a dangerous message to young people.

The civil society alliances dem­anded an immediate suspension of the standardisation process and urged the government to adopt evidence-based policies that prioritise public health and child rights.

Published in Dawn, January 19th, 2026