Karnataka government bans smoking in government premises
The Karnataka government has imposed a complete ban on smoking of cigarettes and any kind of tobacco by employees working in government offices and office buildings. If this order is breached, we will take disciplinary action. The Deputy Minister of National Personnel and Administrative Reforms has issued a gazette notification directing a complete ban on the consumption of these products in public places.
For the health of employees and to protect the public and government servants from smoking, consumption of any kind of tobacco products, including smoking, by any government servant in government offices and premises is prohibited. In this regard, instructions have also been given to install warning boards at appropriate locations in offices.
Strict action will be taken
The note states that under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act 2003, consumption of these products in public places is completely prohibited. Rule 31 of the Karnataka Civil Service Rules 2021 also prohibits consumption of any alcoholic beverage or substance in public places. If any government employee is found smoking or consuming any type of tobacco products (like gutka, pan masala, incense, etc.) in offices or premises in violation of these instructions, disciplinary action will be taken against him.
Warning signs will be installed
The order states that to strictly enforce the smoking ban, warning boards will be installed at appropriate locations in offices. These signs will clearly state that violations of instructions will result in penalties. Government employees will be asked to avoid smoking or consuming any tobacco products (gutkha, pan masala, etc.) in offices or premises.
