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Karnataka Orders Immediate Ban on Tobacco Ads on State Buses and Bus Stands

The move follows protests by Kannada activists after tobacco promotions on state-run transport drew widespread online criticism.

Overview

  • Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy issued a formal note directing KSRTC, BMTC, NWKRTC and KKRTC to enforce the prohibition at once.
  • The ban covers direct and indirect promotion of tobacco products across buses and bus stations operated by the four corporations.
  • Officials were instructed to remove any existing tobacco-related advertising within a set timeline with strict compliance directions.
  • Reporting ties the action to Kannada activists who had been taking down ads on RTC buses and to public health concerns for commuters, particularly young riders.
  • Authorities have not yet outlined detailed enforcement steps or confirmed complete removal across the networks.