Maharashtra Cracks Down on Illegal Gutkha Trade

Maharashtra's FDA Minister, Narhari Zirwal, revealed ongoing illegal gutkha trade despite the ban. The state government may invoke the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act against those involved. Plans are underway for stricter enforcement and awareness campaigns to combat this issue.

Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Minister, Narhari Zirwal, announced on Tuesday that despite the existing prohibition, illegal consignments of gutkha continue to enter the state, posing a risk to students and youth.

The state is considering the application of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) to prosecute key operators and masterminds of the gutkha trade, according to a statement from Zirwal's office. Cases of gutkha and 'pan masala' sales persist in Maharashtra.

A proposal will be submitted to the Law and Judiciary Department seeking advice on registering MCOCA offences against those involved in this illegal trade. Zirwal emphasized stricter enforcement of the ban and directed officials to launch awareness campaigns at the district level to highlight the dangers of this carcinogenic product.

(With inputs from agencies.)