Maharashtra to Implement MCOCA Against Gutkha Sellers Near Schools: Tackling Organized Crime in Tobacco Trade

Maharashtra's government is taking decisive action against the sale of gutkha and prohibited substances near educational institutions by proposing amendments to the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced this stringent measure to combat the proliferation of banned tobacco products that threaten youth safety.

During a session in the Maharashtra Assembly on Tuesday, Fadnavis acknowledged that weak legal frameworks and inadequate enforcement have allowed prohibited substances to be sold unchecked, particularly near schools and colleges where young people are vulnerable.

The Chief Minister stated, "Despite numerous registered cases, existing legal provisions have proven ineffective. The government is now seriously considering bringing violators, especially those operating distribution networks, under provisions similar to MCOCA. This approach will be necessary to effectively deter these cartels."

His remarks came in response to legislators' concerns raised during Zero Hour about shops openly selling banned tobacco products within the prohibited 100-meter radius around educational institutions. They highlighted that the city has become a significant transit and distribution hub for such contraband items.

Despite Maharashtra's ban on the manufacture and sale of gutkha, these products continue to enter the state from external sources, making their way to shops near educational institutions and raising serious concerns about addiction among minors.

The state's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already conducted extensive enforcement operations. Between April and October 2025, authorities raided 365 shops across Maharashtra, resulting in seizures valued at over Rs 22 crore.

Officials report that prohibited items including gutkha, pan masala, supari, and other chewing tobacco substitutes were discovered in 354 of these 365 shops. However, despite consistent enforcement actions, these banned products reportedly reappear in the market within days.

Fadnavis also announced plans to establish a dedicated multi-agency task force to address smuggling from neighboring states.

According to officials, penalties under current legislation for illegal trade in gutkha and related products have not effectively deterred offenders. The proposed MCOCA amendments aim to categorize habitual suppliers, distributors, and trafficking networks as organized criminals.

MCOCA was originally designed to combat mobsters, terror-related crimes, and organized trafficking. It provides special investigative powers, surveillance capabilities, and more stringent bail and prosecution standards.

The amendment proposal has reportedly been forwarded to the Home department for further review and refinement.

The government is also planning district-level awareness campaigns, particularly around schools and colleges, to educate students and parents about the health risks associated with gutkha and other smokeless tobacco products.