“With the Union Health Ministry set to enforce smoke-free rules from October 2, anybody found smoking in public places would be fined. Pubs and discotheques, too, fall in the category of public places as non-smokers are subjected to passive smoking here as well,” said a senior official in the Ministry.

While defining public places as any place accessible to public and where any kind of food or drink is supplied for consumption on the premises, a notification by the ministry stated that smoking is also banned at refreshment rooms, banquet halls, canteens, coffee houses and airport lounges.

“Restaurants with seating space of more than 30 people and hotels having more than 30 rooms will have to ensure that they have separate enclosures for smokers. It’s the manager who will be held responsible in case of any violation,” added the official.

The Union Health Ministry has also asked the state Government to empower more people who can fine smokers. “At present, we have notified teachers, restaurant managers, sub-inspectors, drug inspectors and hospital heads to fine smokers. The state Government has been given the upper hand in notifying more people for the task,” the official said.

While the fine levied on violators is up to Rs 200 at present, the ministry is also in favour of a hike.

“Since this requires an amendment to the law, it will take some time,” said a ministry official.