NGO demands tough anti-smoking rules for hospitality industry

PANAJI: Demanding strict implementation of the Anti-Tobacco Act in Goa, an NGO here has said that the hospitality industry should be made more responsible to adhere to the law.

The National Organisation for Tobacco Eradication (NOTE), in its representation to state Environment Minister Aleixo Sequira, has said that existing non-smoking rules should be amended to prevent the erring hotels from flouting the norms.
   
"It has been observed that hotel management feign helplessness or turn a blind eye to smokers in their premises. They should be made responsible to prevent smoking and if necessary, should restrain offenders from entering the place," NOTE general secretary, Shekhar Salkar said.
   
Hotels should be compelled to set up 'smoking zones', so that smokers use only that area, he said.
   
"All hotels in the state should be compelled to comply with the law and hefty penalties should be in place in case of violation of anti-smoking rules," Salkar said.
   
Besides, all public places including bus stands, airports and government offices should spot hoardings indicating ill-effects of tobacco consumption, as 'No Smoking' signs do not act as deterrent, he said.
   
The state police should be sensitised towards the hazards of tobacco consumption, he said, adding that the NGO would be willing to provide assistance in the process and would give required inputs.