Rajasthan warns teachers on smoking, tobacco consumption

Teachers in Rajasthan government schools have been warned that they will face suspension if they are found smoking or chewing tobacco products in the classroom, officials said Thursday. The orders regarding this were issued recently by the state education directorate, keeping in view several complaints of smoking and consumption of tobacco in school premises against the teachers. Tobacco products are banned in Rajasthan.

"There were complaints of teachers even spitting on the walls in classrooms while chewing tobacco. They ask the students to go out of the school, leaving classes and get them tobacco pouches from the market. It not only wastes their time but also has a bad impact on them. They get attracted and become prone to consuming such things," a senior education department officer told IANS. The officer said that a student or his or her family members can complain at the respective district education office against the teacher who violates these orders.

The officer added that local residents and public representatives will also be able to make such complaints with the District Education Officers (DEO). "The complaint will be verified and the teacher will be transferred. And if further complaints are received against the same teacher, he will be suspended," said the officer. The directorate has also asked the school administration to put up notice boards with the warning against smoking and tobacco consumption.