Starting on May 1, Beijing will enforce the smoking ban in public places, such as in offices, restaurants and hospitals. This measure is aimed to help smokers quit the habit and protect the right to clean air for non-smokers.

However, some people cast doubts on the intention of the regulation, saying that it may violate the rights of smokers, who are addicted to tobacco.

An article in the People's Daily says some people's bad habits should be changed through the force of regulation as well as through self-discipline.

The newspaper points out that the regulations are only effective in public areas. Smokers have to obey the rules so as not to affect the health of non-smokers. In other words, smokers' right to smoke should not violate non-smokers' right to clean air in public places.

The newspaper concludes by emphasizing that the ban on smoking at public areas will have positive effects and hopefully can help smokers quit smoking in the long run.