SHC orders FIRs against sellers of Gutka, Mawa

The Sindh High Court has directed the registration of FIRs against individuals involved in the sale of gutka and mawa.

The constitutional bench of the court was hearing a petition seeking the enforcement of its previous orders regarding the ban on gutka and mawa.

The petitioner informed the court that despite clear judicial directives, the sale and purchase of gutka, mawa, and mainpuri continue unabated.

Upon deeming the petition maintainable, the court sought arguments from the parties involved.

The court remarked that if such violations persist, FIRs must be registered against the sellers of gutka and mawa. The hearing has been adjourned for one week.

Earlier, the Sindh High Court sought a report from the Inspector General of Sindh regarding action against police officers involved in the trade of gutka and mawa.

The court ordered strict proceedings against any officers and personnel found complicit in the sale of these substances.

Expressing concern over police patronage of gutka and mawa sellers, the court observed that the sale of these products is contributing to the spread of dangerous diseases like cancer.

The bench questioned why action has not been taken against such police officers and personnel.

The police informed the court that SSP Matiari, Asif Baghio, accused of facilitating the sellers, has been suspended and that the IGP Sindh has ordered an inquiry against him.