Gutkha is a chewing tobacco product mixed with crushed areca nut, sweeteners, and flavorings. It is popular in some regions but poses serious health risks, including cancer, heart disease, and addiction. Its sale is banned in many areas.
The manufacture, storage, sale or distribution of gutkha and panmasala containing tobacco and/or nicotine as ingredients, by whatsoever name it is available in the market, is prohibited for a period of one year w.e.f. 01.05.2014, in West Bengal, in the interest of Public Health.
The manufacture, storage, sale or distribution of gutkha and panmasala containing tobacco and/or nicotine as ingredients, is hereby prohibited for a period of one year with effect from 01.05.2013 in West Bengal.