KOLKATA, INDIA, December 12, 2001: The West Bengal government today passed a bill prohibiting smoking, spitting or consumption of tobacco in public places. The bill, which now awaits the president’s approval, will prohibit smoking and spitting in public auditoriums, hospitals, health institutions, amusement centers, public offices, court buildings, educational institutions, libraries, places of worship, public conveyances and “such places notified by the state government.” The bill recommends fines of US$22 to $109 and up to three months imprisonment. It will also prohibit the selling of tobacco and cigarettes to people below 18 years of age.
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