Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, June 9: Former Chief Justice of State High Court, Justice (Retd) Bashir Ahmad Khan today stressed upon the formation of an independent executing and law enforcing agency for effective implementation of anti-smoking and anti-tobacco laws in the State.
Delivering presidential address at a media sensitization workshop on tobacco control, Justice (Retd) Khan said that implementation part is missing as far as anti-smoking and anti-tobacco laws are concerned. He said individual efforts are also lacking, adding that people should be vocal in raising their concern over the usage of tobacco and other forms.
“It is important that an independent executing and law enforcing agency is established so that the laws that are there in black and white are implemented. Laws are there but when it comes to implementation there is disappointment and only disappointment for us. This needs to be changed and it is possible only when a separate agency is entrusted the responsibility in this regard,” said Justice (Retd) Khan.
He said that legislation should be enacted so that the production of tobacco and allied products is banned not only in State but across the country. He said a social movement needs to be carried so that people are made aware about the ill-effects of the tobacco consumption.
The former Chief Justice said that police should not be expected to do the enforcement of the different laws, adding that people too have a role to play. He advocated disciplinary action against the Government officials found smoking at public places. He said students should be expelled from educational institutions if found smoking.
Addressing the workshop, prominent physician and former Principal Government Medical College, Srinagar G. Q Allaqabandh gave detailed overview about the ill effects of tobacco and chewing Ghutka. He said the use of tobacco products is major cause of mouth cancer and other dangerous and horrifying diseases.
He stressed upon the teachers, Imams, Civil Society members, voluntary organizations and other sections of the society to raise their voice in this regard.
The other speakers underscored the need of rejuvenating anti tobacco and Ghutka campaign which is posing threat to community at large scale.
The workshop was organized jointly by Voluntary Health organization of India and Jammu and Kashmir Voluntary Health and Development Association (JKVHDA) in collaboration with Civil Defence organization. The workshop was inaugurated by ADGP Civil Defence Dr. Dolly Burman.
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