According to some news stories recently appeared in newspapers, KP government is introducing KP prohibition of tobacco and protection of non- smoker’s health act, according to which tobacco will be prohibited from being stored, distributed, sold or used in public places, this act now also includes lawns and roof tops. It’s really strange to see a new act is coming especially when almost 30 acts are there to control illegal smuggling of cigarettes. This new act will create a very negative impact on growers as well as transporters. So many youngsters are directly settled in this industry and there will be an impact on job market also. If I take my example, I am a sales and marketing person and after this kind of act, job market for youngsters will shrink. Another point is, when matter is in court at federal level then how this bill be can be tabled. I see this new act as publicity stunt of KP government because if authorities really want to address issue then already available laws are enough but only will to implement is required.
Hassam Tariq
Peshawar
