NGO petitions CM against illegal storage, sale of tobacco products

SHILLONG: The A·Chik Indigenous Justice Initiative Forum (AIJIF) has petitioned Chief Minister Mukul Sangma expressing concern over the high prevalence of tobacco use in the State.
In a memorandum submitted to the chief minister, the organisation said the areas bordering Assam have become a hub for storage and supply of gutka and pan masala.
“Though the Deputy Commissioner of Foods Safety, State Food Safety and Standards Authority, Shillong has prohibited the manufacture, storage, transport, sale or distribution of gutka and pan masala containing tobacco and nicotine as ingredients in Meghalaya, the items are still easily available,” the NGO claimed.