The Hindu : Opinion / Letters to the Editor : Laudable

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Saturday, Oct 04, 2008
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Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Laudable

Union Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss deserves credit for enforcing the ban on smoking in public places. But for his relentless fight against the use of tobacco and the powerful tobacco companies, the decision would not have seen the light of day. The country needs more such leaders at the helm of affairs.

J. Anantha Padmanabhan,

Srirangam

* * *

Dr Ramadoss’ bold efforts against the stiff resistance by powerful lobbies needs to be highly commended. We hope the State governments will do their best to implement the law.

P. Cecily,

Chennai

* * *

Though a ban on smoking is not the best way to stop it, it is definitely a laudable initiative. But given the lack of law-enforcement in all spheres, the ban on smoking too may prove to be a dead letter. On buses and trains, the ban will have some effect because of the disapproving look of fellow passengers but smoking in cafés and bars will continue unabated. Instead of banning smoking, why can’t the government double the sales tax and other taxes on cigarettes?

V. Siva Anantha Krishnan,

Tirunelveli

* * *

Dr. Ramadoss’ initiative is extremely laudable as it will, besides helping smokers reduce smoking, save non-smokers from the dangers of passive smoking. I believe that a ban on alcohol consumption in public should also have been imposed simultaneously. There is a practical aspect to a ban on drinking in public. Not only youngsters who live with their parents but also many older men desist from drinking at home. So if the bars are closed, many men will give up drinking.

S. Pattabiraman,

Chennai

* * *

Now that the government has banned smoking in public places, the civic authorities should set up smokers’ rooms in railway stations, airports, shopping malls, etc. Smoking may not be a fundamental right but it is a selective right which can be exercised by smokers.

K. Pradeep,

Chennai

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