IPL Faces Pressure to Ban Tobacco and Alcohol Ads & Sales

The Union Health Ministry has formally requested the Indian Premier League (IPL) to prohibit all forms of tobacco and alcohol advertisements during match broadcasts and in stadiums. In a letter to IPL Chairperson Arun Singh Dhumal, the ministry emphasized the need to eliminate direct and indirect promotions of these products, including surrogate advertising, across all platforms associated with the tournament.

With IPL being one of the most-watched sporting events in India, companies use it as a prime advertising spot. The ministry believes promoting tobacco and alcohol during such a widely viewed tournament sends a mixed message about health and fitness. “The Indian Premier League (IPL) being India’s most viewed sports event, direct or indirect promotion of tobacco/alcohol on any platform linked to sports sends a contradictory message to the public about health and fitness,” the ministry said in a statement.

The request isn’t just about removing ads. The ministry also wants a ban on selling these products at IPL stadiums and other affiliated venues. If you’ve ever grabbed a drink at a match, this could change how stadiums operate.

Another major concern is player and commentator endorsements. The letter calls for an end to cricketers and commentators promoting products related to tobacco and alcohol, even indirectly. Young fans look up to these sports personalities, and the ministry argues they should set a better example. “The IPL, being the largest sports platform in the country, has a social and moral obligation to promote public health and support health initiatives of the government.”

With IPL’s influence, this change could reshape how sponsorships and advertisements work in the tournament. Will the league implement these changes? That remains to be seen. But if it does, it could mark a shift toward promoting healthier choices for cricket fans.