In a significant crackdown, Kota police arrested Satyaprakash Koli (48), a delivery agent for Blinkit, for allegedly supplying cigarettes to underaged coaching students in Landmark City on Saturday evening. This incident has raised alarms in a city known for its thriving coaching culture.

The arrest came as part of an ongoing campaign against the sale of tobacco products to minors. SP Kota City Amrita Duhan revealed that Koli's actions violated the Juvenile Justice Act and Rajasthan Prohibition of Smoking and Non-smoker’s Health Protection Act.

The police had previously warned Blinkit not to sell cigarettes to minors, but violations persisted. “Despite our clear instructions, the company was found selling cigarettes to coaching students,” said SP Duhan.

Authorities seized stock and supply records from Blinkit's local store for investigation. Kunhadi Circle Inspector Arvind Bhardwaj indicated the company could face a chargesheet. “We are probing Blinkit’s distribution network in other cities to identify similar violations,” he added.

This issue spotlights the growing concerns about minors accessing tobacco through quick commerce platforms. Parents and educators in Kota have expressed outrage, emphasizing the detrimental impact of such activities on students' health and focus.

Meanwhile, Blinkit has not issued an official statement regarding the arrest or the allegations. The case serves as a reminder of the ethical responsibility of delivery platforms to ensure compliance with laws protecting minors.

The accused has been remanded in custody, and investigations continue to identify others involved. Authorities aim to set a precedent to curb illegal tobacco distribution, safeguarding Kota's youth from harmful substances.