Bengaluru, June 8 -- Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge on Monday directed city police officials to issue notices to all pubs, breweries, bars, clubs, lounges, restaurants and other liquor-serving establishments to strictly prevent underage entry and underage drinking.

Citing a recent study covering 4,093 students in Bengaluru, the Minister said the findings have raised serious concerns regarding adolescent substance use. As per the study, one in three adolescents is at risk of health issues due to alcohol or tobacco consumption. At least 33 per cent reported alcohol use, while nearly 18 per cent reported tobacco addiction. The median age of starting alcohol consumption was 17 years, with some cases reported as early as 8 years.

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