Maharashtra Government to Revoke Hotel Licenses for Illegal Hookah Parlors, Announces CM Devendra Fadnavis

Mumbai, 26th March 2025: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced stricter measures against illegal hookah parlors in Maharashtra, including permanent cancellation of hotel licenses for repeat offenders. Speaking in the state assembly today, Fadnavis addressed concerns about the proliferation of hookah parlors, especially near college campuses in Pune, where drugs and narcotics are allegedly distributed under the guise of hookah services.

The Chief Minister emphasized that while hookah parlors were banned by law in 2018, the government will now enforce stricter penalties. First-time offenders already face up to three years in prison. New amendments to the law will introduce a six-month license suspension for second-time offenders, while third-time offenders will have their hotel or restaurant licenses permanently revoked and face non-bailable charges.

Fadnavis’s statement came in response to a question raised by MLA Sunil Kamble from the Pune Cantonment Constituency, who inquired about the legality of hookah parlors operating in areas like Koregaon Park. The Chief Minister expressed concern over the rising addiction among youth due to these illegal establishments.

The government’s tougher stance aims to curb the “style statement” associated with hookah consumption and address the broader issues of tobacco and drug use. Fadnavis warned that police officers would face suspension if hookah parlors were found operating in their jurisdictions without their knowledge.

This crackdown on hookah parlors is part of a larger effort to combat substance abuse and protect public health in Maharashtra. The state government is also intensifying its drive against e-cigarettes and other tobacco products.