Shabbir Ahmed, Bhopal. Efforts to control drug abuse are going on in Madhya Pradesh. Before the New Year celebrations, the Cigarette and Other Tobacco Production Amendment Act 2023 has come into force in Madhya Pradesh. In this context, there is a provision of imprisonment up to 3 years for running a hookah bar and along with the punishment, a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh will also have to be paid. Hookah will not be served even in eateries, residential hotels and restaurants. MP government has issued a notification in this regard.
The state government had brought the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Production Madhya Pradesh Amendment Act 2023. It was sent to the President for approval. Gazette notification has been issued after getting approval from the President. There is a provision of minimum 1 year and maximum 3 years imprisonment for the accused. According to the amended Act, hookah bars will not be operated in residential hotels, restaurants, eateries and such institutions of public entertainment as notified by the state government.
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