The Zunheboto Range Students’ Union (ZRSU) conducted a public destruction of seized illicit tobacco products at the Lizu Naghuto dumpsite in Zunheboto Sadar on June 12, reaffirming its commitment to combating the illegal tobacco trade and protecting public health.

According to the Union, the seized tobacco products were incinerated after being intercepted during operations against the illegal transportation and sale of tobacco items allegedly concealed among grocery and other daily essential commodities.

The seized consignment included 19 package boxes of tobacco products reportedly linked to wholesalers Sujit Kumar and Samuel, while an additional four package boxes were seized from Ajmat Karim, proprietor of M/s General Shop. The destruction exercise was carried out in the presence of representatives from the GBs Association and Sumi Totimi Loka, Zunheboto Town.

The Union, along with civil society organisations, reiterated its advocacy of “No Allowance of Seized Products into the Market,” emphasizing that illegal products should not be allowed to compete with legitimate businesses or generate funds that could sustain unlawful activities.

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Expressing concern over the growing accessibility of tobacco products despite existing regulations, the Union warned that the increasing availability of such substances poses a serious threat to public health, particularly among the youth.

In light of the situation, ZRSU appealed to the District Administration to take strict measures as the health of our community depends on the rigorous enforcement of laws

The Union maintained that enforcing tobacco regulations is not merely about restricting access to harmful products but about safeguarding the future of younger generations.