Chandigarh: No ban on sale of hookah, charcoal at shops in Punjab University campus

Chandigarh: Hookahs and charcoal discs (Polo) are being sold right under the nose of the authorities at the Panjab University campus. Hookahs costing Rs 700 to Rs 1,000 and a 10-piece charcoal disc pack for Rs 55 is being sold at a shop located at Sector 14 campus. Hookahs were displayed at a shop located a short distance from the security staff’s booth (Gate No. 2). A person present at the shop, while admitting to selling hookahs, denied selling charcoal. When this correspondent inquired over the phone on Monday evening, the person present at the shop replied, “We have kept hookahs, as it is a gift item. However, we do not sell charcoal.” When asked if it is legal to sell hookahs or charcoal on the campus, he said, “We are not selling flavoured tobacco. It (hookah) is a gift item and is also used for decoration in homes.” A challan was issued against the purchase. While the man claimed that they do not sell charcoal, this reporter bought a hookah (small size) and a packet of charcoal discs (Polo) from the shop in the afternoon. A bill was also issued against the purchase. The invoice (No. 002252) clearly mentions buying “koyala” and “hukka” (hookah) for Rs 775. University officials were surprised when asked about the availability of hookahs on campus. Panjab University registrar Yazvendra Pal Verma said, “I have asked the concerned authorities to investigate and report. If the claim is found to be true, we will initiate action, including evicting the shopkeepers.” Vice-chancellor Renu Wig said, “This (selling hookahs) is not allowed. If the claim is found to be true, the shopkeeper can also be evicted.” Sources claim that the concerned officials visited the shop in the evening and asked the owner to stop selling such products. Most of the shops on the university campus sell products related to stationery, household items, dairy and others. Since the campus also has residential units, household items of daily use are allowed to be sold on the campus – except tobacco products and alcohol. “The authorities should be held equally responsible. The products are being displayed openly and no one is bothering to take any action,” said a senior university official. Even if it is for gift purpose, it cannot be sold on the campus.” Sources claimed that regular checks are carried out on the campus by the university authorities. However, nothing has been put on record in this regard. In the evening, in response to a note sent by the university authorities seeking clarification on the issue, the shopkeeper said, “We have decorative hookah showpieces for sale.” However, he did not mention selling any specific brand of charcoal discs in the reply. Selling hookah not allowed: Vice Chancellor When asked about the availability of hookahs and charcoal at shops on the campus, Vice Chancellor Renu Wig said, “It (selling hookahs) is not allowed. If the claim is found to be true, the shopkeeper can even be evicted.”