279 shops sealed for selling banned tobacco products in Erode district

The district administration has intensified enforcement against the sale of banned tobacco products, including gutkha and pan masala, with joint inspection teams sealing 279 shops and imposing penalty totalling ₹78 lakh during the first six months in the current year.

The district Collector S. Kandasamy said in a press release that officials from the Police, Food Safety, Local Administration, Health and School Education departments had been conducting coordinated inspections at shops, particularly those located near schools and colleges, to curb the sale of banned tobacco products.

Between January and June 2026, the teams sealed 279 shops found violating the ban, imposed penalties amounting to ₹78 lakh, and seized 551.83 kg of the banned products. The seized products were destroyed through the district-level disposal committee, the release said.

Under the enforcement protocol, a first-time offender faces a fine of ₹25,000 and closure of the food business for 15 days. A second violation attracts a ₹50,000 fine and closure for 30 days. For a third offence, a fine of ₹1 lakh will be imposed, the establishment will be closed for 90 days, and its food safety and trade licences are liable to be suspended.

The Collector said inspection teams would continue surprise checks at shops, educational institutions and vehicles transporting banned tobacco products. Stringent action, including prosecution and closure of business establishments, would be taken against those involved in the manufacture, transport or sale of banned tobacco and nicotine-containing food products.

Members of the public can report violations by calling 0424-2223545 or 94440 42322. The identity of complainants will be kept confidential, the Collector said.

Published – July 15, 2026 07:08 pm IST