Karnataka May Ban All Pan Masala and Gutka if Intoxicating Substances Are Found: CM D.K. Shivakumar
Bengaluru, June 28: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Sunday warned that the State Government would ban the sale of all varieties of pan masala and gutka in Karnataka if they are found to contain intoxicating substances.
Addressing the 31st Foundation Day celebrations of the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS) and the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan programme at Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, the Chief Minister said the government has received information that certain pan masala, gutka, areca nut and similar products are allegedly being sold after being mixed with intoxicating substances.
“It has come to my notice that intoxicating substances are being mixed with pan masala, gutka, areca nut and similar products. If this is found to be true and such practices do not stop immediately, the Karnataka Government will ban the sale of all kinds of pan masala and gutka in the State,” Shivakumar warned.
‘Drug-Free Karnataka Is Our Goal’
The Chief Minister said building a drug-free Karnataka remains one of the government’s priorities and called upon students and healthcare professionals to become ambassadors in the fight against substance abuse.
“Drug addiction has become a major challenge. We must all work together to ensure that the younger generation does not fall into the trap of substance abuse. Since you have chosen the noble profession of saving lives, I congratulate all of you and urge you to spread awareness,” he said.
Veerappa Moily Credited for Establishing RGUHS
Shivakumar said the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences has grown into one of the country’s largest health sciences universities and has produced thousands of doctors over the years.
He also acknowledged the contribution of former Karnataka Chief Minister Veerappa Moily, who established the university.
“Karnataka has 70 medical colleges, more than any other State in the country. I thank Veerappa Moily for establishing the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences,” he said.
‘Karnataka Is India’s Medical Capital’
Highlighting Karnataka’s healthcare ecosystem, the Chief Minister said the State has emerged as the medical capital of India, with the highest concentration of hospitals and medical institutions.
“Medical education should be accessible to everyone. Karnataka has an unmatched healthcare ecosystem, and people from across the country visit the State for treatment. Bengaluru’s climate is unique, making it a naturally air-conditioned city. Karnataka has more hospitals than any other State and has become the medical capital of the country,” he said.
He also announced that the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences will be shifted to its new campus in Bengaluru South district.
The Chief Minister’s remarks regarding pan masala and gutka were made as a warning based on information received by the government. No immediate response was available from manufacturers or industry representatives regarding the proposed action.
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