Alleges rising smuggling, blames lack of coordination between FDA and police

Nagpur: Despite a ban imposed since 2012 on the sale and consumption of gutkha, scented tobacco, pan masala, and other harmful tobacco-based food items in Maharashtra, these substances are still widely available—sometimes even delivered through food delivery apps like Swiggy. This startling revelation was raised by MLA Pravin Datke during the Legislative Assembly session, where he demanded stringent enforcement of the law.

Datke pointed out that although the ban exists on paper, gutkha and kharra continue to be sold openly at paan stalls across cities and towns, including Nagpur. Shockingly, these harmful products are reportedly being delivered via online platforms, which raises serious questions about regulatory oversight.

Calls for Joint Crackdown by FDA and Police:

MLA Datke emphasized the urgent need for joint operations by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Police Department to effectively curb the sale and distribution of banned tobacco products. He stated that large-scale gutkha smuggling is rampant across Maharashtra, with consignments entering the state from neighboring regions.

Police Unable to File Cases Due to Lack of Lab Support:

In a major revelation, Datke informed the House that in several police actions, samples of seized gutkha were refused for testing by FDA laboratories. This refusal prevented police from filing proper cases due to lack of scientific evidence, weakening legal proceedings and letting violators go unpunished.

Accuses FDA of Indirectly Shielding Offenders:

Datke further alleged that administrative indifference and indirect protection of vendors by officials is enabling the gutkha trade to flourish. “Due to such flawed decisions by the authorities, the sale of banned products continues to grow unchecked, and no substantial legal action is being taken,” he added.

Strong Appeal for Government Intervention:

MLA Datke made a strong appeal to the Maharashtra government to take immediate and strict action to stop the illegal trade of gutkha and kharra. He urged the state to implement the ban with full force and ensure that offenders face legal consequences without delay.