Kupwara declared smoking-free zone, maximum enforcement to be seen in government offices

Kupwara, Jul 11: The district administration Kupwara Friday declared all government offices and departments within the district as Smoke-Free Zones with immediate effect.

In an official communique by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, all Heads of Departments (HoDs) have been directed to install "No Smoking Area - Smoking Here is an Offence" signage at key points such as entry gates, corridors, staircases, and office halls.

"Strict prohibition has been enforced on the use of tobacco products including cigarettes, beedis, gutka, pan masala, etc., within office premises. The order applies to all employees, visitors, and contractors. Each department is also directed to designate a senior officer as a Compliance Officer to ensure adherence to smoke-free guidelines," reads the official communique.

The order further emphasises staff sensitisation on the harmful effects of tobacco and highlights legal implications for violations. "Departments must maintain internal compliance and submit monthly status reports with photographic evidence to the District Nodal Officer (CMO Kupwara)" said it further.

Violators will have to face penalties under Section 4 of COTPA, 2003, which includes fines. The district administration has urged all departments to ensure strict and timely implementation of the directive without any delay. Meanwhile locals have welcomed the directions passed by the district administration but at the same time have appealed for the complete ban on selling and purchasing of tobacco based products within the district.