Karnataka Bans Hookah Products Citing Health Concerns

On February 8th, the Karnataka government enacted a sweeping ban on the sale, distribution, and consumption of hookah products within the state. This includes all forms of hookah, regardless of whether they contain tobacco or nicotine.

The ban extends to public spaces like hotels, restaurants, and cafes, aiming to curb their presence near schools and educational institutions.

This initiative builds upon existing legislation like the Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) and the Juvenile Justice Act.

COTPA 2003 ಕಾಯ್ದೆ ಹಾಗೂ ಮಕ್ಕಳ ಆರೈಕೆ ಮತ್ತು ರಕ್ಷಣೆ ಕಾಯ್ದೆ 2015 ಅಡಿಯಲ್ಲಿ, ರಾಜ್ಯದಲ್ಲಿ ಎಲ್ಲಾ ಬಗ್ಗೆಯ ಹುಕ್ಕಾ ಉತ್ಪನ್ನಗಳ ಮಾರಾಟ, ಸೇವನೆ, ಜಾಹೀರಾತು, ಸೇವಿಸಲು ಪ್ರಚೋದನೆ, ಸಂಗ್ರಹಣೆ ನಿಷೇಧಿಸಿ ಆದೇಶ ಹೊರಡಿಸಲಾಗಿದೆ.

ಉಲಂಘನೆ ಮಾಡಿದವರ ವಿರುದ್ಧ ಕಾನೂನಿನ ಪ್ರಕಾರ ಕಠಿಣ ಕ್ರಮ ಕೈಗೊಳ್ಳಲಾಗುವುದು.#HookahBan pic.twitter.com/8JtRmSr3Dv
— K'taka Health Dept (@DHFWKA) February 7, 2024

Motivations for the Ban:

Public Health: Karnataka cited concerns about rising tobacco use and exposure to second-hand smoke as key reasons for the ban.

They referenced WHO data showing 22.8% of adults in the state use tobacco, and the significant economic burden of treating tobacco-related illnesses.

Combating Illegal Activity: The government also aims to crack down on illegal hookah bars that often operate near schools, potentially attracting minors.