Nowadays a unique movement is going on against tobacco in Karnataka. A video is going viral on social media in which women are seen tearing advertisements of gutkha and tobacco from government buses.
What is the whole matter?
In the video, women are seen removing big posters put up on the sides of state transport buses. In these posters, tobacco was indirectly promoted in the name of products like pan masala or cardamom. People say that such advertisements attract youth towards tobacco and are harmful for health.
Glad that women joined this trend. 👏🏼👏🏼
In Karnataka Women started tearing down ghutka ads on buses. Very nice. pic.twitter.com/ezrMwxvjPd
— Khurpenchinfra (@Khurpenchinfra) February 12, 2026
Protests had started earlier also
The campaign started in January when some youth removed such advertisements from Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) buses. His videos also went viral. Now, with the involvement of women, this movement has become even bigger.
Why is there protest?
Health experts say that direct or indirect advertising of tobacco is against the law. Many companies advertise tobacco with the name “cardamom” or “pan masala”, which may mislead people. Due to this, anger is increasing among the people.
What did the government say?
The Transport Minister of Karnataka has directed that no tobacco related ads should be shown on buses and bus stands. A deadline has also been set for removing old ads.
Reaction on social media
People are praising this initiative. Many users called it a “very good step” and “very good initiative”. This case shows that when ordinary people come together and speak out, it can have a big impact on public health and social issues.
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