Uttarakhand Gutkha ban: Doon shopkeepers fear losses, consumers welcome health move
PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
The ban on Gutkha and Pan Masala in Uttarakhand has drawn mixed reactions in Dehradun, with shopkeepers fearing financial losses and some consumers welcoming the move on public health grounds. Others have questioned whether the restriction will curb consumption or drive sales underground.
A shopkeeper Kuldeep Singh Rawatsaid that Gutkha and Pan Masala sales contributed around Rs 12,000 to his daily business. He said that his existing stock had been damaged, leaving him with little to sell. He is now relying on snacks and other food items to sustain his business.
“Customers are still asking for these products, but we do not have any stock to supply them,” Rawat said. He added that shopkeepers should have been given time to find alternative sources of income or serve notice before banning Gutkha, so we can think of something.
Consumer Akul Gupta questioned the ban’s effectiveness, saying that people could turn to illegal channels to obtain the products. He argued that awareness campaigns might be more effective than a blanket restriction, as a ban alone would not eliminate demand.
However, Mayank Pal welcomed the decision, citing the harmful effects of Gutkha and Pan Masala. He said that their easy availability, particularly to young people, was a concern, though effective enforcement would be necessary to make the ban work. The differing views highlight the challenge of balancing public health objectives with traders’ livelihoods and preventing illegal sales.
