E-cigarettes explained: tmc mp’s alleged use in lok sabha sparks concern

Recently, the use of e-cigarettes has come under public attention in India after a Trinamool Congress MP was allegedly seen using one inside the Lok Sabha. BJP MP Anurag Thakur raised the matter during the Winter Session of Parliament, highlighting that e-cigarettes are banned in India. This incident has renewed debates on the health risks of e-cigarettes and the legal consequences of possessing or using them in the country.

E-cigarettes, also known as vapes, are electronic devices that heat a liquid into a vapour that users inhale. The liquid, called e-juice or vape juice, usually contains nicotine, flavourings, and other chemicals. Initially, e-cigarettes were marketed as a “safer” alternative to traditional smoking, claiming they could help people quit cigarettes. However, research has shown that e-cigarettes are not harmless and can have serious health risks.

Nicotine is highly addictive, and using e-cigarettes can lead to dependency, especially in young adults and teenagers. The vapour inhaled from these devices contains harmful chemicals that can irritate the lungs and lead to breathing problems. Long-term use may also contribute to chronic respiratory issues. Several studies have linked vaping to heart problems, damaged blood vessels, and lung injuries. Even in countries where e-cigarettes are legal, rare cases of severe lung injury have been reported, showing that the risk is real and should not be ignored.

Because of these health concerns, the Indian government banned the sale, manufacture, import, and distribution of e-cigarettes in 2019. The ban was introduced to protect young people from developing nicotine addiction and to prevent potential health problems linked to vaping. Despite the ban, e-cigarettes are still occasionally found in use, which raises legal and safety issues.

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Legal consequences of e-cigarette use in India

In India, the possession, sale, or distribution of e-cigarettes is prohibited under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act. Anyone found with an e-cigarette or refill may face legal penalties, including fines. Individuals caught selling, storing, or distributing these devices may face harsher punishments, including imprisonment. The law aims to discourage the use of e-cigarettes and prevent public health risks associated with vaping.

The recent alleged incident in the Lok Sabha demonstrates how seriously the government treats the ban. Using an e-cigarette in public, especially in sensitive places like Parliament, can have legal consequences. Lawmakers have called for strict enforcement to ensure that such violations are not repeated. The act of vaping in India is not just a personal choice—it is also a legal matter, and breaking the law can carry significant penalties.

Health experts stress that the perceived safety of e-cigarettes is misleading. Unlike regular cigarettes, e-cigarettes do not burn tobacco, but the inhaled vapour still contains harmful chemicals. Nicotine affects brain development in adolescents and can increase susceptibility to addiction. In addition, chemicals in the vapour may trigger inflammation in the lungs and respiratory tract. Regular use can increase the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and lung disorders.

The government and health agencies in India have been raising awareness about the dangers of vaping, especially among young people. Schools, colleges, and public health campaigns often highlight that e-cigarettes are not safe alternatives to smoking. Instead, they are considered harmful products that can lead to addiction and long-term health problems. Experts advise that people should avoid using e-cigarettes completely to protect their health.

Public discussions following incidents like the one in the Lok Sabha are important because they remind everyone that e-cigarettes are illegal in India. They also highlight the need for awareness about health risks. While some people may see vaping as trendy or harmless, scientific evidence shows that it is risky. Legal enforcement and public education together are crucial in preventing the use of e-cigarettes and protecting public health.

In summary, e-cigarettes are electronic devices that produce inhalable vapour containing nicotine and chemicals. Despite being marketed as safer alternatives to smoking, they carry serious health risks, including lung and heart problems, addiction, and other long-term issues. In India, they are banned under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, and violating this law can result in fines or imprisonment. The recent controversy in Parliament has once again brought attention to these risks, emphasizing the importance of following the law and protecting health by avoiding e-cigarettes entirely.