UP Restaurants Cannot Serve Hookah Even in Smoking Zones, Rules HC
What Happened
The Allahabad High Court bars hookah in UP restaurants ruled that restaurants across Uttar Pradesh cannot operate hookah bars or provide hookah services, including in designated smoking areas. The court held that such services violate the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) and the amended 2008 public smoking rules.
Key Takeaways
The court said a non-smoker's right to breathe clean air under Article 21 of the Constitution outweighs the commercial interests of restaurants. It also clarified that police can take action against establishments violating the law, including search, seizure and penalties.