Hyderabad Police Crack Down on Gutkha, Cigarette Sales Near Schools Under ‘Operation Safe School’
Hyderabad Police under Operation Safe School raid pan shops selling gutkha and cigarettes near schools. Seizures made, strict warning issued to violators.
In a major enforcement drive under “Operation Safe School” in Hyderabad, Police Commissioner V C Sajjanar led a city-wide crackdown on pan shops selling gutkha, tobacco, and cigarettes near schools. The Hyderabad police raids on pan shops were conducted across multiple locations within 100 meters of educational institutions, where such sales are strictly prohibited.
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During the inspections, police teams seized gutkha, tobacco products, and cigarettes, and identified several shops illegally selling these items to school students.
Raids Conducted by DCPs and Task Force Teams Across Hyderabad
The enforcement drive involved senior officials including:
- V Aravind Babu
- Chandra Mohan
- Task Force teams and local police staff
Authorities conducted inspections at multiple pan shops and found violations of rules banning the sale of tobacco products within 100 meters of schools.
Gutkha and Cigarettes Seized, Shops Issued Final Warning
During the Hyderabad pan shop raids, officials:
- Seized gutkha, cigarettes, and tobacco products
- Issued final warning notices to shop owners
- Warned of strict action for repeat violations
Police stated that if shop owners continue illegal sales:
- Shops will be sealed
- Rowdy sheets will be opened against offenders
Operation Safe School Covers Hundreds of Schools in Hyderabad
According to V C Sajjanar, the special drive involved:
- Nearly 5,000 police personnel and officials
- Inspections near around 500 schools across Hyderabad
- Support from local DCPs, station staff, Task Force, dog squad, and senior officers
Authorities revealed that surveillance, including photos and videos, was conducted to gather evidence against violators.
Police Warn Against Tobacco Sales to Students
Speaking to the media, the Commissioner emphasized that:
- Tobacco products act as a gateway addiction (nicotine) for children
- Early exposure can lead to drug use and criminal involvement
- Shopkeepers must stop selling such items near schools
Officials also stated that cases may be registered under relevant laws, including provisions related to prohibited substances and public safety violations.
Coordination with GHMC and Education Institutions
The Hyderabad Police are working in coordination with:
- Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation
- District revenue officials
- School managements
Efforts are being made to:
- Shift shops away from school zones
- Increase awareness among parents and students
- Strengthen monitoring near educational institutions
Hyderabad Police Intensify Operation Safe School Against Tobacco Sales
The Operation Safe School drive in Hyderabad targeting gutkha and cigarette sales near schools highlights the police commitment to protecting children from harmful substances. With strict enforcement, seizures, and continuous monitoring, authorities aim to ensure tobacco-free school zones and safer environments for students.
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