Key Update

The district food safety department seized 134.93 kg of banned tobacco products during a major enforcement drive conducted across Madurai district between May 1 and May 26. Officials inspected 6,341 shops during the operation, including 3,804 checked by food safety officers and 2,537 inspected by joint enforcement teams. During the inspections, authorities found banned tobacco products at 32 locations and sealed 28 shops for violations. Officials also imposed fines totalling Rs 10.25 lakh on 30 violators. Police registered FIRs in nine cases, while further legal proceedings remain underway.

Administration Warns Against Sale and Smuggling

The district administration said it would continue strict monitoring and enforcement against the sale, storage and smuggling of banned tobacco products in Madurai. Officials also urged the public to report the sale of banned pan masala, gutka and similar products to the food safety department or police.

Source: The Times of India