'Ban tobacco altogether to prevent gutkha addiction'

De-addiction experts in the state have welcomed the gutkha ban but believe that it will hardly be a deterrent to addicts. They admit that gutkha will no longer be easily available but because of this prohibition, many will realise that they are indeed addicted to the substance.

They believe for an effective ban, sale of tobacco products should also be prohibited.

One of the experts, Dr Ankur Dave believes that hardcore addicts will switch to other equally toxic alternative or procure gutkha by other means. “Many will buy tobacco and pan masala separately and then mix them to have it. This is no deterrence. This is what is happening in Rajasthan too. To be effective, we need tobacco to be banned as well,” said Dave, adding that only 1% of his patients are gutkha addicts.

One of biggest problems regarding gutkha is the social acceptability it enjoys, opines Dr Vishwamohan Thakur who is a city-based psychiatrist and a de-addiction expert.

“For most addicts, gutkha consumption is like drinking tea – a harmless habit. Post the ban, I’m yet to see any rise in number of addicts seeking consultation,” said Dr Thakur. He admits that most consumers are likely to seek gratification in some other products than deal with the problem.

Meanwhile, Dr Rajendra Anand believes that the gutkha ban can trigger depression and anxiety, if addicts do not get their daily dose. “Hardcore addicts will opt for mava or pan masala now. I have registered a marginal rise in patients since the ban was announced. Earlier, it was just one or two but now it’s more than five,” said Anand. “There are many who call to seek help in the matter as the ban brought the addiction issue in the limelight,” he added.