How good is compliance with smoke-free legislation in India? Results of 38 subnational surveys

Background: India has been implementing smoke-free legislation since 2008 prohibiting smoking in public places. This study aimed to assess the level of compliance with smoke-free legislation (defined as the presence of no-smoking signage and the absence of active smoking, smoking aids, cigarette butts/bidi ends and smoking smell) and the role of enforcement systems in Indian jurisdictions. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, retrospective review of reports and primary data sheets of surveys conducted in 38 selected jurisdictions across India in 2012-2013. Results: Of 20 455 public places (in 38 jurisdictions), 10 377 (51%) demonstrated full compliance with smoke-free law. Educational institutions and healthcare facilities performed well at 65% and 62%, respectively, while eateries and frequently visited other public places (such as bus stands, railway stations, shoppingmalls, stadia, cinema halls etc.) performed poorly at 37%and 27%, respectively. Absence of no-smoking signagewas the largest contributor to non-compliance across all types of public places. Enforcement systemswere present in all jurisdictions, but no associations could be demonstrated between these and smoke-free compliance. Conclusion: Smoke-free compliance in public places in Indiawas suboptimal andwasmainly related to the absence of no-smoking signage. This warrants further pragmatic and innovative ways to improve the situation. © The Author 2014.