Odisha Parents’ Federation Demands Action Against Tobacco Sales Near Schools

The Odisha Parents’ Federation is poised to initiate protests if the state government does not comply with the Odisha Human Rights Commission's directives to eliminate the sale of tobacco and other intoxicants near schools. Despite a previous petition filed in 2019, the Federation claims that no monitoring committees have been established to enforce the ban. Federation leaders emphasize the urgent need for action to protect the youth from the detrimental effects of these substances. If the government remains inactive, a mass protest will be organized.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 24, 2025, 09:23 IST

Urgent Call to Action from Odisha Parents’ Federation

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Parents’ Federation (OPF) has issued a warning about potential protests if the state government does not act on the Odisha Human Rights Commission's (OHRC) directives aimed at stopping the sale of gutkha, tobacco, and other harmful substances near educational institutions.

The Federation highlighted that it had previously submitted a petition to the OHRC in 2019, requesting stringent measures against the sale of tobacco products, pan masala, and other addictive items in proximity to schools, colleges, and universities.

In response to this petition, the OHRC instructed the state government to establish monitoring committees at both district and state levels under the National Tobacco Control Cell (NTCC) to ensure compliance with the ban.

As per the OHRC's directive, these district NTCC cells are to be led by the District Public Health Officer (DPHO), with participation from police and health department representatives.

The Commission also mandated bi-monthly review meetings at the district level, the formation of a state-level oversight committee led by a senior official, allocation of funds by the Health department, and public awareness campaigns through various media.

However, the Federation claims that three months have elapsed since the order was issued, yet no committees have been established.

"The unrestricted sale of gutkha, marijuana, and cigarettes near educational institutions is jeopardizing the future of our youth. If the government fails to take prompt action, we will have no choice but to initiate a large-scale protest," warned Federation president Basudev Bhatta, along with working president Prasanna Bishoyi and general secretary Ashok Paikaray.