'34 pc minors in NE use tobacco'
Source: The Sangai Express / Courtesy TNN
Guwahati, January 30 2016 :
With the Northeast battling rising tobacco usage by chil-dren (statistics say 34% minors in the northeast use such pro-ducts), the newly-amended Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, of the Union Ministry of Women and Child Deve-lopment has been welcomed by doctors and anti-tobacco activists alike.
According to the amended Act, offenders who sell tobacco products to children will be heavily punished and face a longer jail term.
According to Section 77 of the modified Act, which came into force on January 15 this year, a person commits an offence against a child if he or she gives, causes to be given, to the minor any intoxicating liquor or narcotic drug or tobacco product or psychotropic substance except on the order of a duly- qualified medical practitioner.
The offence is punishable with imprisonment extending up to seven years and fine up to Rs 1 lakh.
"Almost 34% children in the Northeastern states consume tobacco, which is very alarming.
More than 5,500 children and adolescents consume tobacco daily in our country.
The steps taken by the Government will prove to be a milestone in child welfare from the point of view of public health.
This act will save our future generation," said AC Kataki, director of Dr B Borooah Cancer Institute.