MARDAN: To deter tobacco and E-Cigarette use among youth. Mardan’s Deputy Commissioner imposes Section 144. prohibiting their sale to individuals under 21.
The Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Mardan has implemented measures to restrict the sale of cigarettes. Vaping products within a 50-meter radius of educational institutions in the city. This move aims to curb tobacco and e-cigarette use among the youth. Emphasizing a proactive approach to address health concerns in educational settings.
To enforce this restriction, legal consequences under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) are outlined for violators. This regulatory measure emphasizes the importance of safeguarding educational environments. Protecting the well-being of students by limiting access to tobacco and vaping products in close proximity to schools.
In a related context, the UK’s advertising watchdog. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), has ruled against British American Tobacco (BAT) regarding the advertising of its e-cigarettes on Instagram. The ASA has directed BAT to cease advertising its e-cigarettes on any public Instagram account, including those of influencers. This decision follows an investigation into seven Instagram posts by BAT’s brand Vype. Prompted by complaints from health groups in March.
The health groups, including Action on Smoking and Health, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. Stopping Tobacco Organizations and Products. Raised concerns that the Instagram posts were likely to appeal to individuals below 18 years of age. Additionally, the complaints alleged that BAT had used models who appeared to be under 25, a practice prohibited in the UK to prevent the targeting of younger audiences.
The ASA’s ruling emphasizes that the ads found in violation of online advertising laws must not reappear in the same form. This decision underscores the regulatory efforts to ensure responsible advertising practices in the promotion of e-cigarettes, especially concerning their potential impact on underage audiences.
Both instances reflect ongoing efforts at the local and international levels to address the health implications associated with tobacco and e-cigarette use, particularly among young individuals. The regulatory actions taken by the Deputy Commissioner in Mardan and the ASA in the UK highlight the commitment to creating environments that discourage the use of such products, safeguard public health, and protect vulnerable populations from potential harm.
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