shot-button
Lake Levels Lake Levels
Home > Mumbai > Mumbai News > Article > Gutka sale to be non bailable offence in Maharashtra

Gutka sale to be non-bailable offence in Maharashtra

Updated on: 23 March,2015 06:07 PM IST  | 
PTI |

Maharashtra government said that those involved in the sale of gutka would be booked under non-bailable sections regarding the offence

Gutka sale to be non-bailable offence in Maharashtra

Maharashtra government on Monday said that those involved in the sale of gutka would be booked under non-bailable sections regarding the offence.


Gutka sale to be non-bailable offence in MaharashtraRepresentational picture


The manufacture and sale of gutka is banned in Maharashtra, but it is not implemented effectively as there are no such restrictions in neighbouring states due to which the tobacco-laced chewing products are smuggled in. State Food and Drug Minister Girish Bapat told the Legislative Assembly on Monday that the government is taking steps to enforce the ban strictly.


The issue was raised during Question Hour by Mohammed Arif Naseem Khan of Congress, who said that despite the ban, gutka is sold in the state even outside Vidhan Bhawan and sought to know what steps the government was taking in this regard.

Bapat said 72,000 shops have been searched and gutka worth Rs 32 crore has been seized so far. "Directives have been given to the police to book the accused under section 328 (causing hurt by means of poison, etc, with intent to commit an offence) of the IPC which is non-bailable," he said.

Mangal Prabhat Lodha of BJP sought to know if the license of shops where gutka is sold would be cancelled. To this, the minister replied that there is no separate license to sell gutka. But, the government would consider a proposal to scrap license of the shops from where gutka is seized, he said.

As many as 1,538 cases of illegal sale of gutka are being tried in the courts. The FDA has started a toll free number through which complaints of illegal sale of gutka can be given, the minister added.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!


Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK