IPL Faces Major Ban on Surrogate Advertising, Sponsors in Shock

The Health Ministry has asked the Indian Premier League (IPL) to ban all kinds of tobacco and alcohol promotions, including indirect advertising, during the tournament starting on March 22. In a letter to IPL chairman Arun Dhumal, Director General of Health Services Atul Goel said that cricketers, who are role models for young people in India, should not be linked in any way to tobacco or alcohol ads.

"IPL should strictly follow the rules that ban all forms of tobacco and alcohol advertising, including indirect promotions, inside stadiums and during live broadcasts on national television," Goel wrote.

Health Ministry Asks IPL to Ban Tobacco and Alcohol Ads

The letter also called for banning the sale of tobacco and alcohol at all IPL-related events and venues. It urged the league to avoid involving players, commentators, or other personalities who promote products linked to tobacco or alcohol, even indirectly. Since millions of Indians watch IPL, the tournament is a major platform for advertisers. However, Goel pointed out that India is struggling with rising health issues like heart disease, cancer, lung disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure, which cause over 70% of deaths every year.

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"Tobacco and alcohol are major reasons behind these diseases. India ranks second in the world for tobacco related deaths, with nearly 14 lakh deaths every year. Alcohol is also the most commonly used harmful substance in the country," he explained. Goel added that cricketers have a moral responsibility to promote good health. "Cricket players inspire young people to stay active and healthy. Since IPL is the biggest sports event in India, it has a duty to support public health and government health initiatives," he said.