Nayagarh Police Seize Gutka Worth Rs 1 Crore!

In response to a statewide ban on tobacco and nicotine products, Nayagarh police have conducted a significant operation, seizing gutka valued at approximately Rs 1 crore within the last four days. This enforcement action led to the arrest of five individuals for violating the newly imposed regulations. The ban, notified by the Odisha government on January 21, prohibits the manufacture, sale, and distribution of all products containing tobacco or nicotine. This measure was introduced to address a concerning rise in oral cancer cases linked to chewable tobacco. The ban encompasses a wide range of products, including flavored, scented, or additive-mixed items, whether packaged or unpackaged. Officials highlighted grave health concerns, especially for young people, regarding smokeless tobacco. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies chewable tobacco products as carcinogenic.