Summary:
In Lutyens’ Delhi, 1,183 people have been challaned this year.Since last year, more than 50,000 people have been challaned for public smoking under Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), the highest number since the law was enacted. “We issue fines on the spot and counsel offenders about smoking in public places. In 2018, over 10,000 people were booked for this offence in south Delhi alone. Beat constables have been asked to patrol markets and areas near schools to nab smokers.The anti-public smoking drive showed that youths between the age-group of 20-30 were the biggest violators. Earlier, challans were issued under “kalandra” proceedings (breach of peace or disturbing public tranquility) where the fine would be payable in the presence of a magistrate..