Health Ministry Launches Online Portal to Report Violations of E-Cigarette Ban

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In an effort to combat the persistent availability of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) on e-commerce platforms and retail outlets, the Health Ministry of India has taken a significant step by launching an online portal. In clear defiance of the ban imposed by the Union government in 2019, the sale of e-cigarettes persists unabated, even to minors below the age of 18, prompting deep concerns among experts actively engaged in the field of tobacco control.

The new portal, www.violation-reporting.in, aims to facilitate the reporting of violations under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes (Production, Manufacture, Import, Export, Transport, Sale, Distribution, Storage, and Advertisement) Act (PECA). It enables the Union Health Ministry to collect vital information from states about the availability of e-cigarettes on online shopping sites and brick-and-mortar retail stores, in direct defiance of the existing ban.

Officials have already identified six websites that are violating the ban, and these platforms are currently under close scrutiny. Additionally, the ministry is actively monitoring the advertisement and sale of e-cigarettes on social media platforms, and it may issue notices to those found in violation of the ban.

The ban on e-cigarettes came into effect to safeguard the health of the population, particularly youth, young adults, pregnant women, and non-smoking adults. The U.S. Surgeon General had previously emphasized that e-cigarette use among youths and young adults is a public health concern, as nicotine exposure during adolescence can lead to addiction and harm the developing adolescent brain.

What are E-cigarettes?

E-cigarettes, also known as “e-cigs,” “vapes,” “e-hookahs,” “vape pens,” and “Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS),” are battery-operated devices used to inhale nicotine or other substances in vapor form. They come in various shapes, with some resembling regular cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, while others may look like USB flash drives, pens, or other everyday items. The act of using an e-cigarette is commonly referred to as “vaping.”

Studies have also shown that daily e-cigarette use is associated with a significant increase in heart attack risk. Moreover, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has warned about the release of potential carcinogens such as acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, and acetone from nicotine solvents used in e-cigarettes. The liquid-vaporizing solutions also contain toxic chemicals and metals, leading to adverse health effects, including various cancers and diseases affecting the heart, lungs, and brain.

Defective e-cigarette batteries have also posed safety risks, causing fires and explosions that have resulted in serious injuries. Most incidents occurred during the charging process.

The government of India has been proactive in implementing tobacco control measures to protect public health. The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Bill, 2019, prohibits various aspects of e-cigarette usage, while the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade, Commerce, Production, Supply, and Distribution) Act (COTPA) 2003 ensures smoke-free public places and restricts tobacco advertising and promotion.

Furthermore, the Health Ministry initiated Tobacco Quitline Services (1800-112-356) in 2016, providing toll-free assistance to those seeking to quit tobacco use.

By launching the online portal to report violations, the government aims to reinforce its commitment to a tobacco-free future and protect citizens from the harmful effects of e-cigarettes. With swift action and public cooperation, the battle against e-cigarette sales and usage can gain momentum, ensuring a healthier and safer environment for all.

Source:

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/health-ministry-asks-states-to-report-violations-of-e-cigarette-ban-on-its-portal/articleshow/102005868.cms

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/online-portal-launched-to-report-violation-of-ban-on-e-cigarettes/article67105976.ece#:~:text=The%20portal%2C%20www.violation%2D,reported%20violations%2C%20the%20government%20said.&text=%E2%80%9CThe%20ban%20on%20electronic%20cigarettes,new%20form%20of%20toxic%20addiction.

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