West Bengal’s courts could see a ban on cigarettes, paan and gutkha, along with tighter entry checks, after Calcutta High Court Chief Justice Ravindra V. Ghuge initiated discussions on implementing the restrictions across the state’s court premises.
According to a report by Anandabazar, the Chief Justice has written to judges of the district courts on the proposed prohibition. The initiative covers the Calcutta High Court as well as courts in the districts, and seeks to restrict the use of tobacco products within court premises.
The proposal is linked to existing restrictions on smoking in government areas. A section of lawyers told the publication that smoking, paan and gutkha are already prohibited in government premises under law, and that the Chief Justice wants those provisions implemented more firmly inside court complexes.
The proposal has also prompted a suggestion from lawyers for designated smoking zones within court premises. That position is among the issues expected to be considered by the Bar Council and bar associations before a final decision is communicated to the Chief Justice.
The entry-control proposal would require people entering courts to undergo checks using metal detectors. However, the report makes clear that a directive for such checks has not yet been issued. The Chief Justice has proposed that the Bar Council and bar associations discuss the matter and submit their decision in writing.
A formal guideline on metal-detector checks across all courts would be issued only after that written response, according to the report. The consultation will therefore determine how the proposed tobacco restrictions and entry procedures are taken forward across the state’s court system.
