The Health Ministry has called on the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to prohibit all forms of tobacco and alcohol advertising, including indirect promotions through surrogate brands.
In a letter dated March 5, Director General of Health Services Atul Goel urged IPL chairman Arun Singh Dhumal and the BCCI to ensure that no tobacco or alcohol products are sold at IPL matches or events. He also requested that players and commentators refrain from endorsing such products, either directly or indirectly.
Goel highlighted the significant influence of cricketers as role models, emphasizing that the IPL, as India’s largest sporting event, has a responsibility to support public health initiatives. He pointed out that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes account for over 70% of deaths in India, with tobacco and alcohol being major risk factors.
India ranks second in the world for tobacco-related deaths, with around 14 lakh deaths annually. Alcohol consumption is also a widespread issue. With the IPL season starting on March 22, Goel urged the league to strictly enforce regulations on tobacco and alcohol promotions, ensuring full compliance with advertising laws.
