The Federal Court has dismissed an appeal challenging the Gutka Act, reaffirming the ban on the chewing tobacco product. A two-member bench, headed by Justice Hasan Rizvi, heard the case and rejected the petition.
During the hearing, Justice Rizvi emphasized the severe health risks associated with Gutka, noting that it is often made from rotten tobacco leaves. He stated that Gutka is even more harmful than cigarettes and can cause oral cancer, with hospitals now seeing a growing number of patients suffering from related illnesses.
The lawyer representing the petitioner, Shah Khawar, informed the court that he had not received instructions from his client regarding the appeal. Justice Rizvi responded that if needed, the court could summon the petitioner and even allow them to demonstrate Gutka in the courtroom to understand its harmful effects.
The constitutional court’s decision underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to curb the use of Gutka and protect public health.
