Hookah service in UP restaurants ruled illegal under smoking ban

A court ruling in Uttar Pradesh has declared that hookah smoking services in restaurants are illegal under existing tobacco control regulations. The judgment clarifies that hookah consumption involves commercial preparation and service elements that fall outside permitted activities in designated areas.

The court found that hookah smoking requires more than simple consumption of a product. The service involves commercial preparation, supply and service of the hookah apparatus itself, along with flavoured tobacco, charcoal and other ancillary materials provided at the table. This composite commercial activity distinguishes hookah from other forms of tobacco use.

Under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), restaurants and similar establishments cannot serve or permit hookah smoking in their premises, whether in designated smoking zones or otherwise. The ruling effectively bans hookah bars operating as commercial establishments within restaurant settings across the state.

The decision aligns with stricter interpretations of smoking bans in public spaces and commercial establishments. Authorities in Uttar Pradesh are expected to use the ruling to enforce compliance among restaurant operators currently offering hookah services to customers.