Govt Urges IPL to Ban Tobacco & Alcohol Ads Over Health Risks:

The Union Health Ministry sought a ban on all advertising and PR for tobacco and alcohol during the Indian Premier League (IPL) matches, including selve advertising, saying it has a duty to protect public health.Televised matches were also included in the ban. They argued that they had a public health responsibility.

This proposal was made in anticipation of the IPL season which begins on March 22 2020.

In a letter addressed to the DGHS IPL Arun Singh Dhumal, the director admitted that selling the products at affiliates events and sporting venues should be banned as well.

The letter also made clear the negative attitude towards the endorsing of sports heroes and even commentators who promote alcohol and tobacco bears their name.

The letter which was sent to the Board of Control for Cricket in India stated that India bears one of the largest burdens in the world of non-communicable diseases: cardiovascular, cancer, chronic lung disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. This list comprises over 70% of the total deaths in the country each year.

“There is a significant problem in the country as it has one of the highest rates of tobacco related deaths. 1.4 million people die every year due to tobacco use. Alcohol has become the most common drug in India as nearly all Indian citizens are addicted to it," the letter said.

Addressing the "Health and Sanitation" department, the letter stated that, with the Indian Premier League (IPL) being the most viewed event in India, its advertisement during and in association with sports events in India sends an unhealthy message when it comes to caring for one body and fitness. "For example, direct or indirect advertising through sports of tobacco and alcohol products should be prohibited within the boundaries of all sports facilities and events including but not limited to: During the forging and editing of the IPL games and/or events on National television; during the ancillary trading of features including but not limited to advertising at sporting events; selling tickets to scrubbed games events."