Former Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights chairperson Shashidhar Kosambe has urged Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to prohibit the sale of Sting energy drink within a 500-metre radius of schools and colleges, citing concerns over children’s health.
In a letter to the Chief Minister, Kosambe recommended that Karnataka adopt Maharashtra’s model, which restricts the sale of such products near educational institutions. He argued that energy drinks containing artificial colours and chemical substances could negatively impact children and adolescents, particularly due to their easy availability around schools.
Kosambe also called for stricter enforcement of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, proposing that the existing 100-metre restriction on tobacco sales around schools be extended to 500 metres while also covering energy drinks and other intoxicating products. The Karnataka government has not yet issued an official response to the proposal.
Health Concerns Prompt Call for Wider Restrictions
In his letter, Kosambe expressed concern over the increasing accessibility of energy drinks to school and college students, stating that products containing artificial colours and chemical substances could pose risks to children’s health.
While highlighting Sting energy drink in particular, he argued that the issue reflects a broader need to regulate the sale of products that may encourage unhealthy consumption among young people. Referring to Maharashtra’s policy, he urged the Karnataka government to introduce a similar restriction by prohibiting the sale of such beverages within a 500-metre radius of educational institutions.
According to Kosambe, limiting the availability of these products near schools could help create a healthier environment for students and reduce their exposure to substances that may not be suitable for regular consumption at a young age. He also appealed to the state administration to treat the matter as a public health concern requiring preventive action rather than waiting for long-term consequences to emerge.
Push for Stronger Enforcement of COTPA
Alongside his demand for restrictions on energy drinks, Kosambe called for more effective implementation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003. At present, the law prohibits the sale of tobacco products within 100 metres of schools and other educational institutions.
However, he suggested that the state should strengthen this safeguard by expanding the restricted zone to 500 metres and broadening its scope to include energy drinks and other intoxicating products. The proposal is aimed at creating a larger protective buffer around schools, making it more difficult for children and teenagers to access products that may adversely affect their health or influence harmful lifestyle choices.
Kosambe argued that such measures would complement existing child protection and public health efforts while encouraging safer surroundings for students. Although the recommendation has drawn attention, the Karnataka government has not yet indicated whether it plans to consider or implement the proposed changes.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Protecting children’s health is a shared responsibility that requires evidence-based policymaking, public awareness and collective action. Concerns about the easy availability of products perceived as potentially harmful near schools deserve careful examination, particularly when they involve young people who may be more vulnerable to aggressive marketing and unhealthy consumption habits.
At the same time, any regulatory decision should be guided by robust scientific research, transparent public consultation and a balanced assessment of its likely impact. Alongside restrictions where necessary, greater nutrition awareness, health education and parental engagement can empower children to make informed choices and build healthier habits for life. Creating safe spaces around schools is not only about limiting access to certain products but also about fostering environments that support children’s physical and mental well-being.
As Karnataka considers proposals aimed at strengthening protections for students, the broader conversation should remain focused on ensuring that children’s best interests are placed at the centre of public policy. Do you think restricting the sale of energy drinks near schools is the right approach, or should governments prioritise awareness campaigns and education alongside regulation?
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