Karnataka Stands Firm on Nicotine-Containing Gutkha Ban Amid Rumors

The Karnataka government faced speculation yesterday that it might lift the gutkha prohibition shortly after it was announced. Health Minister U.T. Khadar responded by reiterating that only nicotine‑infused pan masala is barred, and there is no plan to reverse the order.

He recalled that similar concerns were raised during the initial ban and that the chief minister backed the decision. Khadar highlighted that supari prices have risen in the three months following the earlier restriction, suggesting that the current ban will not harm the supari value chain.