Stakeholders’ Perspectives on Anti-tobacco Legislation and Tobacco Use: Findings from a Qualitative Study

Background Globally, tobacco consumption is ever-increasing despite legal regulations and widespread public education. India is the second country in tobacco use in many forms. It is important to know the viewpoints of stakeholders at various levels. The opinions of important stakeholders regarding anti-tobacco legislation and factors about the use of tobacco products are examined in this study. Methods We conducted semi-structured interviews with 12 stakeholders from the Thiruvananthapuram corporation—public health officials, consumers, vendors and law and order officers who deal with tobacco. Interviews examined their opinions on the use of tobacco, as well as how legislations relate to it and how they view their sphere of operation. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results The use of tobacco products is rampant across age groups in many forms. The stakeholders mostly opined regarding the loopholes in the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act and its improper implementation at many levels. It is also noted that gross ignorance regarding the legal aspects of tobacco is there, especially at the grassroots level. They also highlighted the future actions that need to be taken into account, such as the involvement of representatives from all walks of tobacco in the policymaking process, ensuring that policies are congruent to the local context, and effective public campaigns should be conducted with a special focus on children and women. Conclusion This study’s findings revealed various stakeholders’ views on tobacco control laws, patterns of tobacco use and concerns regarding the current scenario. Addressing the tobacco epidemic would necessitate sustained collaboration with larger partners. In general, tobacco control must be given priority to achieve a healthy nation.