Smoking Ban

One thing Ramadoss and the government finally got it right. The ban on smoking in public places. I can see all smokers up in arms hoping this post will go up in smoke.

India's population is 1200 million and there are approx 120 million smokers, according to latest census, which translates into a “whopping” 10% smoker population. All smokers are indignant that government is curbing their freedom. Questions like if smoking is injurious to health why doesn't the government ban manufacturing of cigarettes instead of banning smoking in public places. If I were to draw a parallel, this would be similar to laws on speeding. When cars are made to go over 200 kms/hour why are there laws which makes speeding over 60 illegal? Why not just ban the cars or pass laws which will ensure that cars with speed capacity of over 60 are not manufactured?

Banning cars or banning manufacturing of cigarettes will be infringement on freedom. It would mean a ban on making a choice. However, banning smoking in public place is upholding the rights of 90% people to inhale tobacco free air. This is such a fundamental right which smokers violate with impunity regardless of whether it causes air pollution, allergic reactions or plain irritation to others.

I say smokers should rejoice that manufacturing cigarettes is not banned. They are free to buy cigarettes and kill themselves. After all, every one has a right to screw their own lives.

Thank God the smoking ban is finally in place. Now, your smoking will not kill me.