India Implements Smokefree Workplace Legislation
05/04/04
India joins Ireland, Norway, Sweden, New Zealand, and Bhutan
India implemented a new law today outlawing smoking in public places and workplaces, including bars and restaurants. India joins Ireland, Norway, Sweden, New Zealand, and Bhutan with similar legislation.
The law is part of India's Tobacco Control Act, which also eliminates tobacco advertising and selling tobacco to minors. Anyone caught breaking the law will be fined 200 rupees, officials said.
"The law is largely intended for the benefit of future generations," said Digvijay Khandvilkar, the health minister of Maharashtra.
The guidelines were originally issued in February and state governments were given three months to publicize and implement them, according to a health ministry spokesman. The guidelines call for owners of restaurants, hotels and other public places to display NO SMOKING signs, and that anyone violating the law could be fined.
Cigarettes
