Will seek regulations on tattooing amid health concerns: Min

The Karnataka health department is set to write to the Union health ministry to introduce regulations on tattooing, including licensing requirements for tattoo artists and studios.

- Arun Dev

BENGALURU: The move comes after findings revealed harmful heavy metals in tattoo inks being used in the state, officials aware of the matter said on Friday.

Meanwhile, the Karnataka food safety department has also raised concerns over the use of polythene sheets in idli preparation at several restaurants.

Addressing a press conference on Friday, health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said that currently, tattooing operates without formal oversight. "There are no existing rules regulating tattoo inks, which may contain harmful substances. Once introduced into the skin, these inks can carry bacteria, viruses and fungi," he said.

To address this issue, Rao has directed the food safety commissioner to formally request national-level regulations. "We are asking the food and drug control commissioner to take up this matter with the Centre. Various unregulated materials are being injected into the body, yet they do not fall under the Drugs or Cosmetics Act. Clear guidelines must be established," he added.