NEW DELHI: The Karnataka government has implemented a ban on smoking and the consumption of tobacco products within government offices and premises.
A circular issued by the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR) on Thursday warned that disciplinary action would be taken against employees who violate the directive.
The government’s decision follows concerns over the health risks posed by passive smoking and the violation of statutory warnings.
The circular emphasizes the protection of public health and staff wellbeing by prohibiting smoking and the use of tobacco products, including gutka and paan masala, inside office premises.
Warning boards will be displayed in offices, and any government employee found violating these instructions will face disciplinary action.
The circular also cites the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003, as well as Rule-31 of the Karnataka State Civil Service (Conduct) Rules, 2021, which prohibits the consumption of intoxicating substances in public places.
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