295 persons fined for smoking in public in Bengaluru, police book 40 cases

The North Division Police of Bengaluru conducted a special enforcement drive against smoking in public and violations under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, registering 40 cases and imposing fines on 295 persons.

The operation was carried out across 13 police station limits in the North Division from the evening of March 6 until late night and continued into the morning of March 7. Police teams checked public places where smoking is prohibited, and also inspected shops displaying tobacco advertisements.

During the drive, cases were booked against individuals found smoking in prohibited public places, and fines were imposed in accordance with provisions of the COTPA Act, 2003.

Police officials inspected commercial establishments and shops suspected of illegally displaying advertisements for cigarettes and other tobacco products.

Police stated that such operations will continue to ensure compliance with anti-tobacco regulations and to discourage smoking in public places.