DK Shivakumar warns of statewide ban on pan masala, gutka over narcotics concerns

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Sunday warned that the state government could impose a complete ban on pan masala, gutka and related products if they are found to contain intoxicating or narcotic substances.

Speaking at the 31st Foundation Day celebrations of the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences and the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan programme at Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, Shivakumar said the government would take strict action against manufacturers found adulterating such products.

"It has come to my notice that intoxicating substances are being mixed and sold in pan masala, gutka, arecanut and other products. If this is true and is not stopped immediately, the sale of all kinds of pan masala and gutka products will be banned in Karnataka," Shivakumar said in a post on X.

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Government warns of stricter action against manufacturers

The Deputy Chief Minister said the government would not tolerate even trace amounts of narcotic substances being added to commercially sold products.

"If anyone is found adding even a small quantity of any intoxicating substance to these products, I will make every effort to ban them in Karnataka," he said.

Calling substance abuse a major social challenge, Shivakumar urged students, doctors and healthcare professionals to participate actively in anti-drug awareness campaigns and work towards making Karnataka a drug-free state.

"Preventing drug addiction is a big challenge, and we must all come together to ensure the youth do not fall into this trap. This is everyone's duty," he said.

State already enforces restrictions on gutka products

The state of Karnataka already imposes prohibitions on gutka and chewing tobacco under the laws provided by the Food Safety and Standards Act. Periodic prohibitions against manufacturing, storing, selling, and distributing the products are imposed by the government due to health concerns, such as oral cancer caused by consuming tobacco and areca nuts.

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The latest statements made by Shivakumar suggest that the government will possibly impose additional prohibitions for any products that are proved to contain narcotic or intoxicating substances.

While at the event, the minister emphasised that Karnataka boasts the best healthcare system in India, which includes 70 medical colleges, making Karnataka "medical capital" of the country.

FAQs

Q1. Why does DK Shivakumar threaten with banning pan masala and gutka?

According to him, the reports saying that intoxicating substances are mixed with these products would mean an immediate prohibition if proved to be true.

Q2. Are there any restrictions on gutka in Karnataka?

Yes, Karnataka imposes periodic prohibitions on gutka products and certain chewing tobaccos.