Islamabad: Rising tobacco and nicotine use among Pakistan’s youth, especially around educational institutions, emerged as the central concern at a national review session on tobacco control held by the Aurat Foundation in Islamabad.
Participants from Parliament, government departments, health organizations, and civil society warned that easy availability of cigarettes, vapes, nicotine pouches, and flavored tobacco near schools is creating a growing public health threat. The discussion also pointed to a noticeable increase in tobacco use among women, indicating a shifting trend.
The session called for stronger legislation, faster policy action, and strict enforcement to counter the rapid spread of emerging nicotine products. Speakers emphasized that existing laws remain poorly implemented due to procedural delays, weak monitoring, and limited coordination between federal and provincial bodies.
The need for clear parental awareness, community engagement, and better recognition of new nicotine products was highlighted as an essential part of early prevention. Officials noted that families and schools often remain unaware of modern products marketed to young people.
Technical briefings identified major enforcement gaps and policy loopholes that allow the tobacco industry to expand its reach. Participants noted that companies are increasingly using social media trends, entertainment content, and youth-focused marketing to promote vaping in urban areas.
Government representatives reaffirmed ongoing federal efforts to implement the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance 2002 and to tighten regulations where required. Provincial representatives also announced plans to introduce new resolutions to strengthen tobacco control.
Education sector officials raised alarms over the rise of nicotine products around private institutions and called for tougher regulatory checks. Regulatory authorities stressed the need for a broader social movement to counter tobacco use nationwide.
Closing the event, the Aurat Foundation reiterated its commitment to evidence-based advocacy, cross-sector collaboration, and long-term public awareness initiatives aimed at building a healthier, tobacco-free society.LAHORE: The ongoing legal dispute between actress Nazish Jahangir and Aswad Haroon has once again grabbed headlines, with new developments emerging from the courtroom.
The case, which revolves around allegations of fraud and financial misconduct, has taken a serious turn as both parties continue to exchange accusations.
According to Aswad Haroon, arrest warrants have now been issued against Nazish Jahangir. Sharing details of the court proceedings, he claimed that the actress had repeatedly threatened him and behaved aggressively during their appearances in court.
“She appears in court with her lawyer, threatens me, and acts aggressively like goons. Today, she even pushed my mother, which is why we bad-mouthed her outside the court. I will not stay silent against such behaviour,” Aswad stated.
Providing further context, Aswad revealed that he first met Nazish during their debut project for ATV, where they became friends. He alleges that she borrowed 2.5 million rupees and a car but later refused to return them.
“She has powerful connections and has threatened me multiple times. This matter could have been resolved peacefully, but she refused to cooperate. Now, we will pursue legal action,” he added.
Nazish Jahangir, on the other hand, has denied all allegations and has taken legal action against Aswad Haroon as well. As the case unfolds, both sides continue to present their versions of the events, leaving the public divided over the controversy.
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