Hookah parlours ban in Telangana: The Telangana Legislative Assembly took a significant step on Monday by passing a bill aimed at banning hookah parlors across the state. The amendment to the existing Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act of 2003 garnered unanimous support through a voice vote, indicating a strong consensus among lawmakers on the urgency of addressing the issue. Presented by Legislative Affairs Minister D. Sridhar Babu, on behalf of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply, and Distribution) Telangana Amendment Bill 2024 sought to combat the growing concerns surrounding hookah smoking, particularly among the youth.
In his presentation to the assembly, Minister Babu underscored the pressing need for action against hookah parlors, citing the detrimental impact they have on the younger generation. He highlighted the alarming trend of hookah addiction among college students and emphasized the health risks associated with hookah smoking, which are believed to surpass those of traditional cigarette consumption. Hookah smoke, containing carbon monoxide, heavy metals, and carcinogens, poses a grave threat not only to hookah smokers but also to those in their vicinity, including passive smokers.
The proposed legislation aims to curb the proliferation of hookah parlours ban in telangana and bars, which have become increasingly prevalent in public spaces. By imposing a ban on these establishments, the government seeks to protect public health and mitigate the adverse effects of hookah smoking on society. The unanimous support for the bill reflects a collective recognition of the need to address this pressing public health issue and underscores the legislature’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of the citizens of Telangana.
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