Former Union Health Minister and PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss on Tuesday urged Ajith, director Saran and producer Prabhu to remove scenes and stills from 'Asal', which show Ajith smoking a cigar.

"Every year, 10 lakh Indians are diagnosed with tobacco-related ailments, while on average 2,500 people die everyday because of consuming tobacco products. Hence I request you to delete smoking scenes from your movie," the former Minister said in his mail.

Meanwhile, members of Pasumai Thayagam, an NGO headed by Anbumani's wife Sowmya picketed theatres where 'Asal' would be released and voiced their concern over giant cut-outs of the actor, where he is shown smoking a cigar.

PMK's history of opposing smoking in films dates back to 2002, when party founder S Ramadoss came down heavily on Superstar Rajinikanth for "influencing youngsters to smoke" through his movies. PMK cadre allegedly attacked theatres screened 'Baba' at that time.

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