ITANAGAR, 21 May: The Health & Family Welfare Department has officially declared all hospitals and healthcare premises across the state as strict ‘tobacco-free zones’.

“This directive has been implemented under the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) 2003, and applies to all government hospitals, community health centres, primary health centres, sub-centres, medical colleges, and private healthcare facilities in every district with effect from 19 May,” Health & Family Welfare Commissioner Pawan Kumar Sain said in a release.

Use of any form of tobacco (smoking, chewing gutkha, paan masala, etc) has been strictly prohibited within the entire hospital premises, including buildings, offices, corridors, wards, parking areas, gardens, and canteens.

“As mandated by the COTPA, sale and distribution of tobacco products are strictly banned within a radius of 100 yards of any healthcare institution,” the release said.

Every hospital will prominently display ‘no tobacco zone’ and ‘tobacco kills’ boards at their entry points, waiting halls, and conspicuous locations across the premises.

Sain said that a box should be placed at each entry gate of the hospital building, so that any person who possesses any tobacco product may put it in the box before entering the premises.

The medical superintendent/medical officer of each facility has been authorised to act as ‘tobacco monitor’ to report violations and ensure compliance.

Spitting of tobacco products within hospital premises has been strictly prohibited, as it contributes to the spread of infectious diseases.

 “Anyone found violating the tobacco-free guidelines, whether staff, patients, or visitors, will face strict disciplinary actions and fines as per the law,” the release said.

“Hospitals are places of healing, and maintaining a tobacco-free environment is critical to reducing exposure to second-hand smoke and promoting overall wellness,” said Sain. (DIPR)