The Madras High Court has taken action to curb the alarming rise in tobacco use among children, particularly the use of a new product called “Cool Lip.” The court has directed the Tamil Nadu government to implement stringent measures to enforce tobacco-free educational institutions and to take action against those involved in the sale and distribution of tobacco products to minors.
Background
The court’s order comes in response to the alarming increase in tobacco use among children, particularly the use of “Cool Lip,” a new type of tobacco product. This product, often marketed as a harmless alternative to traditional tobacco products, is highly addictive and poses serious health risks.
Key Points of the Court’s Order
The court has ordered the state government to strictly enforce the Tobacco Free Educational Institution Guidelines and the Implementation Guidelines.
Schools are mandated to conduct regular oral and dental health checks for students to identify early signs of tobacco use.
The government is directed to set up specialized centers to provide counseling and treatment to children addicted to tobacco.
Schools are encouraged to conduct awareness programs to educate students about the harmful effects of tobacco use.
Schools should collaborate with health authorities to organize awareness programs and provide counseling services.
The court has emphasized the need for strict enforcement of laws against the sale and distribution of tobacco products to minors. Offenders may face penalties under the Juvenile Justice Act and the Food Safety and Standards Act.
The court has expressed deep concern over the impact of tobacco use on the health and well-being of children. It has called for urgent action to protect children from the harmful effects of tobacco addiction.
