The Hindu : Surrender cigarettes at Metro stations

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Saturday, May 31, 2003

Other States

Other States - New Delhi

Surrender cigarettes at Metro stations

By Our Staff Reporter

NEW DELHI MAY 30. The world may need to observe "No Tobacco Day'' to highlight the dangers of tobacco abuse, but for the Delhi police manning the Delhi Metro system each day is just that.

Not ones to allow Metro passengers an opportunity to carry cigarettes, bidis and match-boxes on the system, the police personnel have in the name of "security'' been forcing the passengers to surrender their cigarettes before entering the system.

The practice clearly runs contrary to all civil norms. For while smoking is prohibited on the system, the police have no right to confiscate cigarette or bid packs. But when it comes to Delhi police, few dare to challenge their authority.

What makes such seizures ridiculous is that unlike cinema halls, those coming to Metro stations are bound for other destinations and do not return to same entry point even if they return later in the day.

However, the actions of the cops make good economic sense. Even if by conservative estimates, one out of every 10 Metro passengers carries a cigarette pack, that makes 4,000 cigarette packets. And with each costing around Rs 25, the net kitty swells to Rs 1 lakh in confiscated material for which no slips are issued and no seizure memos made. No wonder the cops don't want people to blow up their money in smoke.

Printer friendly page
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Other States

Stories in this Section

No increase in Metro fares, says Khurana

Surrender cigarettes at Metro stations

Housing schemes details on DDA website

Panel to look into vigilance set-up in DDA

Mukhi criticises Govt. for non-electrification of flats

Desilting of drains going at a snail's pace: Arya

Delhi chosen for investment study