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Mizoram has banned the manufacture and sale of smokeless tobacco products such as gutkha and khaini. Should Assam, which has one of the highest incidences of cancer, take a leaf out of the neighbouring state’s book & ban gutkha and paan masala?
We have observed around 20 to 30 per cent people get infected by cancer because of tobacco consumption in the state. Hence, if the government imposes a ban on the manufacture and sale of tobacco products, the number of patients getting infected by cancer would come down significantly. In fact, it will be a huge step as it would not only save several lives, but will also relieve people from the huge expense they incur in the treatment of the disease. Consumption of tobacco may also cause cardiovascular diseases and hypertension.
GANESH DAS, oncologist
The manufacture and sale of tobacco products should be banned. These products are among the first carcinogenic items that youngsters get attracted to. It has been noticed that a few children of reputed schools in the city consume smokeless tobacco products on the campus without the knowledge of the school authorities. Hence, it is imperative that the state government prohibit sale of such products.
AMIYA GOSWAMI, parent
The state government should take inspiration from the neighbouring state and impose a ban on the manufacture and sale of smokeless tobacco products. Not only Mizoram, Delhi has also banned it. But the ban should be imposed completely and strictly as the products are available in many places despite the ban. In some cases, the packets have been changed and are now available in two packs, namely paan masala and zarda.
KAUSHIK HAZARIKA, student
As told to AKANKSHYA CHALIHA
whats new
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As told to AKANKSHYA CHALIHA | 
