In a strong step to safeguard public health, the Jammu and Kashmir administration has banned the smokeless tobacco product ‘Cool Lip’ across Kathua district, making it the second district after Doda to take action against the harmful substance.
The District Magistrate of Kathua, issued an order prohibiting the storage, sale, display, and distribution of ‘Cool Lip’ with immediate effect, citing a rapid rise in its use among school-going children and youth.
Why Is Smokeless Tobacco Banned?
Authorities across India have been increasingly strict on smokeless tobacco products because they pose severe health risks and are often marketed deceptively as safer alternatives to smoking. In reality, products like ‘Cool Lip’ contain nicotine and carcinogenic chemicals that cause oral cancer, gum diseases, and addiction.
Health experts emphasize that no form of tobacco is safe, and banning such products is necessary to protect children and prevent early addiction.
Where Is ‘Cool Lip’ Banned in India?
As of now, ‘Cool Lip’ is banned in Kathua and Doda districts of Jammu & Kashmir, following growing public outrage over its availability in local markets. Authorities in both districts have confirmed that the product will remain banned until further orders.
More states across India are expected to follow similar restrictions as awareness about the product’s dangers spreads.
Kargil
An administrative ban was imposed on the sale and distribution of ‘Cool Lip’ in April 2025.
Tamil Nadu: In September 2024, the High Court directed the Tamil Nadu and central governments to launch a detailed probe into ‘Cool Lip’ due to its widespread availability and potential to act as a gateway to other narcotic substances for students, notes The New Indian Express.
Read also: Cancer fast spreading its roots in Jammu & Kashmir: Report
Public Health at Risk: Students Using ‘Cool Lip’ for Intoxication
Reports from local schools and communities revealed that students were consuming ‘Cool Lip’ pouches to experience a mild intoxication effect.
Parents, teachers, and health officials raised serious alarms over its impact on young minds, leading to mental health issues, concentration problems, and addiction.
Officials discovered that ‘Cool Lip’ was easily available in small shops, making it dangerously accessible to minors.
Official Ban Under BNSS 2023: Strong Legal Action
The District Magistrate enforced the ban under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, granting powers to act in the interest of public health and safety.
The order clearly prohibits the sale, storage, and promotion of ‘Cool Lip’, warning that violators will face strict legal action. The ban will continue until further notice, ensuring that youth and students are shielded from harmful exposure.
Strict Implementation Across Kathua and Doda
The administration has directed the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Chief Education Officer, Tehsildars, and Food Safety Officers to enforce the ban rigorously.
Authorities will conduct frequent inspections, confiscate banned stock, and penalize shopkeepers found violating the directive.
This step marks a coordinated effort to eliminate the circulation of smokeless tobacco products from the market.
Legal Basis: Tobacco and Nicotine Prohibited in Food Products
Citing Clause 2.3.4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restriction on Sales) Regulations, 2011, the District Magistrate reiterated that tobacco and nicotine cannot be used in any food product.
Since ‘Cool Lip’ is consumed orally, it directly violates food safety laws and is considered hazardous to health.
How Does Tobacco Affect Your Lips?
Using products like ‘Cool Lip’ can cause severe oral damage, including lip discolouration, sores, gum recession, and even cancer.
The nicotine content leads to reduced blood flow, drying and darkening of the lips, while repeated use increases the risk of oral cancer.
Doctors warn that early users often experience irreversible lip and gum damage, making such habits especially harmful to children.
Why Banning Menthol Cigarettes and Smokeless Tobacco Matters
Just like menthol cigarettes, smokeless tobacco products such as ‘Cool Lip’ are being banned because they mask the harshness of nicotine, making them more addictive. The bans aim to discourage first-time users, especially youth, from developing long-term addictions.
Spreading Awareness to Prevent Tobacco Use
The administration has circulated the order through print, social, and electronic media to ensure public awareness. Officials have urged citizens to report any illegal sale of ‘Cool Lip’ and cooperate in maintaining a tobacco-free environment.
This campaign represents a collective push toward protecting children and ensuring a healthier future for Jammu and Kashmir.
The ban on ‘Cool Lip’ in Kathua and Doda is a landmark step in India’s ongoing war against tobacco addiction.
By cracking down on smokeless tobacco products, authorities are sending a clear message — public health takes priority over profit.
