Union Health Ministry to instruct BCCI to remove tobacco ads at cricket stadiums - Reports

The Union Health Ministry feels these types of advertisements attract Indian youth.

In a significant development, the Union Health Ministry might give instructions to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to stop putting advertisement of harmful tobacco products and hoardings at cricket stadiums across India, according to the reports.

Many former cricketers and Bollywood stars are often seen endorsing tobacco products. However, many have criticized that the stars shouldn’t promote these kinds of products as they attract the younger generation. Similarly, many cricket stadiums in India have been promoting tobacco products during cricket matches.

It is to be noted that the broadcast of these kinds of advertisements is strictly prohibited under Section 5 of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) and the Cable Television Network Rules.

This rule prohibits any direct or indirect advertisement of harmful tobacco products in film, television, or any OTT platforms.

Urging BCCI to stop showing tobacco related ads in any form

According to a report in Live Mint, the Union Health Ministry will soon communicate a message to the BCCI about not showing tobacco-related ads in any form.

The report further added that these kinds of advertisements targets the Indian youth, and that is the major reason behind the strict step taken by the ministry.

“Cricket matches are popular among young population. There have been multiple instances wherein surrogate smokeless tobacco ads are being displayed during cricket matches and celebrity endorsement happening. This tends to indirectly attract the youths. The health ministry’s DGHS may communicate to the BCCI urging them to stop showing tobacco related ads in any form,” the source said.

The report further revealed that the Union Health Ministry is taking steps to tackle smokeless tobacco products.

“India has taken a comprehensive approach to tackle the use of smokeless tobacco products, but more needs to be done,” the official added indicating at a ban on these kinds of advertisements.

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