Raids no deterrent, illegal tobacco sales thriving near colleges: Students

Despite enforcement drives, the illegal sale of tobacco products, particularly cigarettes, in close proximity of educational institutions continues unabated in the city.

- PEARSON LENEKAR SR @Tiruchy

DESPITE enforcement drives, the illegal sale of tobacco products, particularly cigarettes, in close proximity of educational institutions continues unabated in the city. The easy availability, in turn, is driving addiction among the youth, say students and activists, who call for measures like continuous surveillance, regular raids and suspension of shop licenses to bring about "a real impact".

Following a petition submitted by a group of students of the Thanthai Periyar Government Arts and Science College at the district collector's camp office on Monday, teams jointly comprising of officials from the city corporation, city police and the food safety department the same day held searches at shops operating near educational institutions in Khajamalai and Race Course Road. The localities house several schools and colleges.