Tobacco ads pulled off government buses after public backlash

Bengaluru : The Karnataka government has ordered the immediate removal of tobacco product advertisements from all government-run buses and bus stations, following widespread public criticism and media reports highlighting the issue. Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy has issued strict directions to the heads of the state’s four transport corporations, making it clear that public transport infrastructure cannot be used to promote products harmful to public health.

Over the past few weeks, government buses across the state were seen carrying advertisements related to tobacco products, sparking sharp reactions from commuters, Kannada organisations and public health activists. Critics alleged that transport corporations, driven by the urge to increase non-ticket revenue, compromised social responsibility by allowing such advertisements on public buses that cater to lakhs of passengers every day.

The controversy intensified after several incidents in which members of the public reportedly removed tobacco advertisements from buses in protest. Many argued that promoting tobacco consumption through government-owned transport systems sends a contradictory message at a time when the state is running awareness campaigns against tobacco use and its adverse health effects.

The issue gained further attention after a TV9 report highlighted the scale of tobacco-related advertisements on state transport buses and at bus terminals. Acting swiftly on the report, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy directed the Managing Directors of all four transport corporations to ensure that no tobacco advertisements are displayed, either directly or indirectly, on buses or within bus station premises.

In his order, the minister stressed that the decision has been taken in the interest of public welfare and must be implemented with immediate effect. He categorically instructed officials not to permit any form of advertising that encourages or promotes the consumption of tobacco products in public transport spaces.

The directive also calls for a comprehensive review of existing advertisements. If tobacco-related promotional material has already been installed on buses or at bus stations, officials have been asked to set a clear deadline and ensure that all such advertisements are removed within the stipulated period. The minister has reportedly warned officials to strictly enforce the order and avoid any delay or negligence.

Public health experts and civil society groups have welcomed the government’s move, stating that public transport systems should reflect the state’s commitment to safeguarding public health. They also emphasised that government-owned spaces must not be used to normalise or indirectly endorse tobacco consumption.

With this decision, the transport department is expected to revisit its advertising policy to ensure that revenue generation does not come at the cost of public interest. The move is also seen as an attempt to restore public confidence and uphold the social responsibility of state-run transport corporations.