Overview

• The order blocks storage, sale, display and distribution of the product across Kathua with immediate effect until further notice.
• District Magistrate Rajesh Sharma issued the prohibition under Section 163 of the BNSS, 2023, citing Clause 2.3.4 of the Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011.
• Authorities cited rising availability in local shops and reports of students using the pouches as the trigger for the action.
• Parents, teachers and public representatives reported incidents of children experiencing intoxication, with concerns over well‑being and the school environment.
• Enforcement has been assigned to the senior superintendent of police, the chief education officer, tehsildars, naib tehsildars and the designated food safety officer, and the order has been widely publicized.