Despite a statewide ban on hookah usage imposed by the State government, numerous hookah cafes, particularly those outside city limits, continue to operate illegally, allegedly with the support of local law enforcement. These establishments, located along routes such as Mysuru Road, Bidadi, Ramanagara, Airport Road, and Nandi Hills, attract hundreds of youngsters, with footfall increasing significantly during weekends and holidays.
These cafes reportedly generate substantial daily revenue, ranging from over Rs 6 lakh on weekdays to up to Rs 10 lakh on weekends. Tobacco control experts emphasize the importance of reporting such illegal activities to the authorities.
According to the owner of a now-closed hookah cafe, who spoke anonymously, these establishments often operate with the complicity of the police. He expressed concerns about the selective enforcement of the ban and questioned whether it applies only within Bengaluru city limits or across the entire state.
SJ Chander, convener of the Consortium for Tobacco-Free Karnataka (CFTFK), highlighted the addictive nature of hookah, containing nicotine more potent than cocaine or heroin. He stressed the need to safeguard children and youths from falling prey to hookah addiction.
Chander commended the government’s efforts but urged society to report illegal hookah bars to the authorities. He emphasized the detrimental impact of hookah on youths’ futures and called for increased police vigilance.
In response to queries about the inadequate enforcement of the hookah ban, Bengaluru City Police Commissioner B Dayananda reiterated the government’s stance and assured that stern action would be taken based on reported violations. He also mentioned plans to request the cancellation of trade licenses for cafes serving hookah through the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike.
