📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Prime Minister's Office
Crime
UP Court Bans Hookah Bars, Prohibits Serving Even in Smoking Zones
✍️ indiatoday.in
🗓 30 Sep 2026, 02:37 AM
👁 11
A Uttar Pradesh court has ruled that hookah bars are banned and cannot serve hookah even in designated smoking areas.
In a recent ruling, the High Court of Uttar Pradesh declared hookah bars illegal, stating that they cannot operate even in areas designated for smoking.
The decision follows concerns over public health and the spread of tobacco‑related diseases. The court cited the state’s anti‑tobacco laws and the need to curb secondhand smoke exposure.
The ban will affect all establishments that offer hookah services, forcing them to either shut down or modify their operations. Existing hookah bars are expected to face enforcement actions within the next few weeks.
Business owners have expressed uncertainty, while health advocates welcomed the ruling. The court has directed authorities to ensure compliance and to issue notices to non‑compliant venues.
The decision follows concerns over public health and the spread of tobacco‑related diseases. The court cited the state’s anti‑tobacco laws and the need to curb secondhand smoke exposure.
The ban will affect all establishments that offer hookah services, forcing them to either shut down or modify their operations. Existing hookah bars are expected to face enforcement actions within the next few weeks.
Business owners have expressed uncertainty, while health advocates welcomed the ruling. The court has directed authorities to ensure compliance and to issue notices to non‑compliant venues.