‘Smoking Cubicles’ Everywhere – ‘Mathata Thitha’ Only To Shield TV Scenes

The main propaganda programmes of the Rajapakse regime was ‘Mathata Thitha’ (Halt to intoxication) and ‘restrain from smoking.’ However, these programmes have proved to be mere media spectacles as production of liquor and cigarettes has increased when compared with the past years. Also, a programme has been launched to increase sale of cigarettes and liquor.

One such programme is the‘smoking cubicles’ being constructed in many towns in the island. They have been constructed by Ceylon Tobacco Company. The regulations imposed through ‘Mathata Thitha’ programme are not effective in these cubicles. A person of any age could have any number of smokes and if necessary could have drinks in these cubicles. The necessary equipment could be found in the cubicles.  

At present these ‘smoking cubicles’ are being constructed throughout the island. They are being constructed at places where crowds frequent and also in ‘no smoking’ areas. In certain places bus halts are removed to construct ‘smoking rooms.’  

Government’s ‘Mathata Thitha’ programme has been restricted to shield scenes of drinking and smoking on the TV.