Shivamogga MP B.Y. Raghavendra demands withdrawal of ban on gutka in Karnataka, cites impact on arecanut farmers
B.Y. Raghavendra said that if the ban order was not withdrawn immediately, the BJP would hit the streets to protest against the government
Shivamogga Member of Parliament B.Y. Raghavendra has called for the immediate withdrawal of the ban on gutka in Karnataka, expressing concern that the decision was influenced by lobbying efforts by cigarette companies. Speaking at a press conference on August 14, Raghavendra stated that if the ban was not lifted within 24 hours, the BJP party would mobilize protests against the government.
He warned that the ban would negatively impact arecanut farmers, noting that the price of areca had already dropped after the ban was imposed. Raghavendra criticized the government's decision, suggesting that if they were truly concerned about public health, they should instead ban the sale of cigarettes and liquor. He questioned why the Congress government had increased the number of liquor licenses and liquor shops at the hobli level, and why they would turn around and ban the sale of gutka.
The Karnataka government has prohibited the sale and distribution of gutka, pan masala, and other tobacco-containing products for one year, effective from August 10. The prohibition applies to all forms of products containing tobacco or nicotine, whether packaged or unpackaged. Food Safety Commissioner Srinivas K. explained that the new notification was issued to ensure compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, as the previous prohibition was not in line with the Act's provisions.
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