Bangalore : Chief Minister Siddaramaiah led State Cabinet has  given its approval to ban Gutka and pan masala across the state and the order is expected to be enforced from May 31   which  is observed as World Anti Tobacco Day. However, the CMs decision has come under criticism from a few ministers, MLAs and areca growers.

Presently, around 20 states including Gujarat and Maharashtra have banned Gutka. In Maharashtra, Gutka companies had moved the Supreme Court against the government decision, but had to face a setback.

Even in Karnataka there is a possibility of areca growers and gutka marketing companies moving  court against the government move.