Despite the long-standing ban, gutkha, pan masala, scented tobacco, flavoured supari, and other harmful products continue to reach the state in significant quantities. Officials say the illegal supply chain poses severe health risks, particularly to schoolchildren and young adults who are increasingly falling prey to addictive substances.

Chairing a high-level review meeting at Mantralaya, Minister Zirwal said the government must go beyond routine seizures and focus on dismantling the syndicates behind the illegal trade. “To break the chain, it is essential to target the masterminds, financiers, and organisers. We are seriously considering applying MCOCA against them,” he said.

The FDA will send a formal proposal to the Law and Judiciary Department seeking guidance on whether MCOCA can be invoked against those responsible for large-scale transportation and distribution of banned tobacco products. Officials from multiple departments—including police, health, and district administration—participated in the review meeting, discussing joint strategies for stronger coordination and intelligence-sharing.

Zirwal also instructed district authorities to strengthen public awareness campaigns about the health hazards associated with gutkha and related substances. The government aims to protect vulnerable groups, particularly minors, by reducing availability and curbing the influence of illegal networks operating across district borders.

With enhanced enforcement and the possible use of MCOCA, the state hopes to deliver a strong deterrent message to smugglers while safeguarding public health.

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Justice Dipankar Datta led the Bench that heard the matter. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi appeared for Jacqueline Fernandez. He argued that the actor only received gifts from Sukesh Chandrasekhar, the key accused in the ₹200-crore money laundering case. Rohatgi claimed that investigators built the case as a cover for failed MCOCA charges, which could not stand in court earlier.

Jacqueline Fernandez repeated that she had no role in laundering money. She said her connection with Sukesh Chandrasekhar was personal and the expensive gifts should not be treated as evidence of crime. The Enforcement Directorate, however, has maintained that she gained benefits from the alleged conman. Officials claim that she accepted luxury items and financial help, which link her to the money trail.

The Supreme Court’s refusal to intervene means that ED proceedings will continue without pause. This decision is a major setback for Jacqueline Fernandez, who has tried for months to clear her name. The ruling also signals that the court wants the trial process to move forward, rather than end at the preliminary stage.

The case against Jacqueline Fernandez remains one of the most high-profile money laundering cases in Bollywood. Her legal battle has drawn wide attention from both media and the film industry. With this ruling, she now faces a long trial ahead, as the Enforcement Directorate continues to push its case.

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