Mysuru: Police raided an illegal hookah bar operating in the city and arrested one person on March 3, seizing hookah pots and various materials used for tobacco consumption. The raid was conducted at a premises located on the second floor of a building near Mathrumandali Circle within the limits of V. V. Puram police station.

The arrested individual has been identified as Sanjay (25), a resident of Paduvarahalli. He is accused of running the hookah bar illegally under the guise of a café, allegedly allowing customers to consume hookah and tobacco products in violation of existing laws.

Raid near Mathrumandali Circle

According to police sources, acting on credible information about unlawful activities at the premises, a team from V. V. Puram police station conducted a surprise inspection on the second floor of the building near Mathrumandali Circle.

During the raid, officers found that the accused was operating a café where hookah and tobacco-related materials were being used and supplied to customers. Authorities said the establishment did not have the required permissions to run a hookah bar and was allegedly violating provisions related to tobacco control.

Police seized hookah pots worth approximately ₹50,000 along with around 27 types of materials used in the preparation and consumption of hookah. These materials included flavoured tobacco and accessories typically used for hookah smoking.

Customers detained

At the time of the raid, two persons were found consuming hookah on the premises. They were taken into custody and later handed over to the V. V. Puram police for further action as per legal procedure.

Police officials said that such establishments often attract young people, raising concerns about public health and compliance with anti-tobacco regulations. The operation was part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal hookah bars and enforce tobacco control measures in the city.

Legal provisions invoked

The V. V. Puram police have registered cases under Section 125 and Section 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), as well as Sections 4(A) and 21(A) of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA).

Section 4(A) of COTPA pertains to the prohibition of smoking in public places, while other relevant sections deal with penalties and enforcement measures related to tobacco use and sale. Police stated that further investigation is underway to ascertain whether additional violations were committed, including possible breaches of municipal and licensing regulations.

Health and enforcement concerns

Authorities emphasised that hookah smoking, often perceived as a safer alternative to cigarettes, poses significant health risks. Medical experts have repeatedly warned that hookah smoke contains harmful chemicals and carcinogens similar to or even exceeding those found in cigarette smoke.

Police officials noted that strict action will be taken against individuals and establishments found violating anti-tobacco laws. They also urged citizens to report any such illegal activities in their neighbourhoods.

The crackdown reflects the police department’s continued drive to ensure compliance with public health regulations and prevent the spread of tobacco consumption, particularly among the youth.

Further investigation is in progress, and the accused will be produced before the court after completion of necessary formalities.