Bengaluru, June 29: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has issued a strong warning to pan masala and gutkha manufacturers, saying the state government will ban their products if tests find any intoxicating or drug-like substances in them. The warning is part of Karnataka’s larger campaign to make the state drug-free.
Speaking at the 31st Foundation Day of Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS) and the Drug-Free India Conclave in Bengaluru, Shivakumar said the government has received information that some manufacturers may be mixing harmful substances into pan masala, gutkha, areca nut and other chewing products to create a “drug-like high” for consumers.
The Chief Minister warned manufacturers to stop such practices immediately. He said the government would not hesitate to ban the sale of pan masala, gutkha and similar products across Karnataka if laboratory tests confirm the presence of intoxicating substances.
No Ban Yet
The Karnataka government has not announced an immediate ban. Officials must first collect product samples, conduct laboratory tests and confirm whether the products contain illegal substances. A formal government notification would be required before any ban comes into effect.
Companies Face Greater Scrutiny
The warning puts pan masala and gutkha companies under closer watch. Manufacturers may now face stricter inspections, product testing and compliance checks. Authorities are expected to monitor whether companies follow food safety rules and avoid adding prohibited substances.
Impact on Advertising
The move could also affect advertising by pan masala brands. Many companies promote products such as elaichi, mouth fresheners and other non-tobacco items using the same brand name. Regulators have often questioned whether these advertisements indirectly promote tobacco-related products. If found misleading, companies could face action under consumer protection rules.
Other States Have Taken Similar Steps
Several states, including Odisha, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, have already imposed or extended restrictions on gutkha and tobacco-containing pan masala products. Karnataka could take similar action if product testing finds violations of food safety rules.
Government’s Focus on Public Health
Shivakumar said Karnataka’s goal is to build a drug-free state and protect young people from addiction. He urged manufacturers to ensure their products are safe and warned that public health would always come before business interests.