By TC News Desk
Agartala, 16th November 2025: The Tripura Human Rights Commission has sought a detailed report from the Director General of Police (DGP), Tripura, on the steps being taken to enforce anti-smoking laws across the state. The directive was issued after the Commission, on 20 September 2025, took suo motu cognizance of widespread smoking in public places and the resulting health hazards and environmental concerns.
The Commission observed that public smoking not only creates discomfort but also contributes significantly to air pollution, exposing non-smokers to serious ailments such as lung cancer and heart disease. It noted that smoking in open areas deprives the public of clean air and carries potential long-term health risks.
Following its cognizance, the Commission sought a report from the Tripura State Pollution Control Board regarding measures taken to curb air pollution caused by smoking in public spaces. In its response dated 9 October 2025, the Board stated that the issue of public smoking does not fall within its jurisdiction.
Taking into account the Board’s position, the Commission reviewed the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003. As highlighted by the Commission, Section 4 prohibits smoking in public places, except in designated smoking areas in hotels with at least 30 rooms, restaurants with seating for 30 or more, and airports. Other sections of the Act deal with bans on advertisement, restrictions on sale to minors, and mandatory health warnings on tobacco products. Section 21 prescribes penalties for violations of the ban on smoking in public places.
In light of these statutory provisions, the Commission deemed it necessary to seek clarity on enforcement mechanisms within Tripura. It directed the DGP to submit a comprehensive report detailing actions taken to implement the Act across the state.
The DGP has been given three weeks to respond, and the matter has been listed for the next hearing on 2 December 2025.
The order was signed by Justice Arindam Lodh, Chairperson of the Commission.
