The Islamabad administration has announced a complete ban on sheesha cafes across the federal capital. The decision follows directions from the Islamabad High Court, which ruled that such businesses cannot operate without a proper regulatory framework.
Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon announced the ban on Wednesday through a statement on X. He said the restriction would remain in place until further orders. Moreover, the ban applies to all sheesha cafes, including those holding no-objection certificates and operating in indoor or outdoor settings.
The administration warned that authorities would seal any cafe found violating the order. Additionally, officials will register cases against owners who continue operating despite the restriction.
IHC Gives One Month for New Regulations
The announcement came after the Islamabad High Court directed the district administration to formulate comprehensive rules and regulations within one month. Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar issued the directive while hearing petitions related to sheesha cafes operating under interim arrangements.
During the proceedings, the court acknowledged the business interests of cafe owners. However, the chief justice stressed that public health and safety must remain a priority. Consequently, the court concluded that sheesha cafes could not continue operating without proper oversight.
The chief justice also expressed concerns about the health implications of sheesha use. Furthermore, he warned that such activities could negatively affect young people.
Authorities Ordered to Ensure Strict Enforcement
Islamabad Inspector General of Police Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi informed the court that police had already taken action against several establishments. According to the police chief, authorities registered cases and conducted raids following earlier court directives.
He also stated that some cafe owners resisted police operations. Moreover, officers reportedly found children as young as 14 and 15 years old at certain establishments.
The deputy commissioner directed assistant commissioners to conduct daily inspections across Islamabad. Therefore, authorities will closely monitor compliance until a new regulatory framework is introduced.
