Health Ministry Urges BCCI, SAI to Ban Athlete Endorsements of Tobacco, Alcohol

The Union Ministry for Health and Family Welfare has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) to prevent sportspersons from endorsing tobacco and alcohol products or participating in surrogate advertisements. The ministry emphasized that celebrities, particularly athletes, are role models for millions of young people both in India and globally.

In a letter addressed to the BCCI and SAI, the ministry stated that cricketers and other sportspersons are expected to promote a healthy, active, and productive lifestyle. It expressed concern over surrogate advertisements of tobacco and alcohol-related products featuring prominent cricketers and actors during events such as the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The BCCI is responsible for establishing policies, guidelines, and roadmaps for the promotion and governance of cricket in India, keeping in mind the welfare of players and the interests of cricket fans. The ministry suggested that the BCCI take proactive measures to prevent surrogate advertisements of tobacco and alcohol-related products by sportspersons.

The letter proposed several measures, including having sportspersons sign an anti-tobacco Declaration of Interest form, prohibiting promotions or advertisements in stadiums or events hosted by the BCCI, and issuing directives to players under BCCI's jurisdiction to refrain from such surrogate promotions.

The ministry also requested that similar restrictions be applied to other celebrities during BCCI events, such as the IPL. It emphasized that these measures would help reduce tobacco consumption, especially among youth, and reinforce a positive image of sportspersons as advocates of health and fitness. Furthermore, it would uphold the highest standards of integrity and responsibility in sports.