Bhopal: Act banning hookah bars comes into force

Bhopal: The Madhya Pradesh Amendment Act, 2023, aimed at banning hookah bars and cigarettes and other tobacco products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) has come into force in the state. After getting the consent of President Draupadi Murmu on 17 December, a government notification was issued on 27 December.

The government notification states that, notwithstanding anything contained in the Act, no person shall, on his own behalf or on behalf of any other person, open or run a hookah bar at any place including an eatery. Restaurant means a place where food or refreshments are served or sold for consumption.

The Act covers establishments such as residential hotels, restaurants, eateries, places of public entertainment or recreation and also includes establishments of such nature as are notified by the State Government.

If any police officer, not below the rank of Sub Inspector or an officer of any rank authorized by the State Government, has reason to believe that the provisions of Section A (Act) have been or are likely to be contravened If it is being done by a person, he can confiscate any material or thing used. As a subject or means of hookah bar.

Anyone violating the standard will face imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years but not less than one year and fine which may not exceed Rs 1 lakh and not less than Rs 50,000. Not possible.