Allahabad HC Orders Granting Of License To Hookah Bars In UP Within One Month As Per Process

Prayagraj, February 23 (TNA) The Allahabad High Court has directed hookah bar operators to file applications as per rules for authorities to decide them within a month after the ban imposed during the Covid-19 outbreak was lifted.

This order was given by the division bench of Acting Chief Justice Pritinkar Diwakar and Justice SD Singh while disposing of the suo motu PIL. In view of the Corona infection, the Chief Secretary had banned hookah bars in the state by an order dated September 5, 2020.

Now, the Covid restrictions have been eased. Such businesses including hookah bars have started in other regions of the country. That's why permission should be given in the state also, it was contended.

The Additional Advocate General said that the order will be passed according to the rules by applying under the Food Safety and Standards Act. The Court said hookah bar is regulated by law and that strictly following the application, the license should be given or renewed.