Crackdown on Tobacco Sales Near BIT Mesra: 22 Shops Raided, Heavy Fines Imposed

RANCHI – Under the directives of Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Sadar, Shri Kumar Rajat, district authorities launched a major crackdown on the sale of tobacco products near the Birla Institute of Technology (BIT), Mesra. The raid aimed to strictly enforce the ban on tobacco consumption and sales within a 100-metre radius of educational institutions.

Surprise Inspections and Violations

Led by Sushant Kumar, District Consultant of the Tobacco Control Cell, the raiding team conducted surprise inspections of 22 establishments in and around the college campus. The operation was supported by officers and personnel from the BIT Mesra TOP (Tactical Operations Post) under the Sadar Police Station area.

During the search, several shops and kiosks were caught violating the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) by:
Selling tobacco products within the prohibited 100-metre zone.
Displaying illegal advertisements for tobacco.
Allowing tobacco consumption in public spaces.
Penalties and Strict Warnings

The district administration imposed a total fine of ₹10,000 on the violators found guilty during the drive. Shopkeepers were issued a stern warning that the sale or promotion of tobacco near educational centres is a serious offense.

Commitment to “Tobacco-Free” Zones
The administration has clarified that such surprise raids will continue in the future to protect students from addiction. Stringent legal action will be taken against repeat offenders to ensure Ranchi’s educational hubs remain tobacco-free.