The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has ordered the closure of all shisha cafes across the federal capital until the government introduces new rules to regulate their operations.
Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar issued the directions while hearing a petition concerning shisha cafes operating without proper legal authorisation. The court also ordered authorities to withdraw previously issued no-objection certificates (NOCs).
The detailed written order is expected later.
Court Orders Withdrawal of Existing NOCs
The court directed the relevant authorities to ensure that all shisha cafes remain closed until the government finalises the regulatory framework.
During earlier proceedings, the chief justice questioned how these establishments continued operating without comprehensive rules. He also expressed concern that officials had misinterpreted an earlier court order as permission for shisha cafes to operate without restrictions.
Government representatives informed the court that officials had prepared draft regulations and forwarded them for approval. However, the rules had not yet received final approval.
The court maintained that the absence of regulations could not justify activities lacking a proper legal basis.
Islamabad Administration Begins Crackdown
Following the court’s directions, the Islamabad district administration launched enforcement action against shisha cafes.
Authorities sealed four cafes in the E-11 area as an initial step. The deputy commissioner also instructed assistant commissioners across Islamabad to take immediate action against establishments covered by the order.
The administration directed officials to enforce the closure without discrimination. The restrictions apply to indoor and outdoor shisha operations, including establishments that previously held NOCs. Officials have been instructed to ensure compliance across their respective areas.
Police Report Details Enforcement Action
Islamabad Police also submitted a report detailing action against shisha-related violations. According to the report, police registered 89 cases between January 1 and September 7, 2026, involving 282 suspects.
The police said they had intensified monitoring and enforcement against illegal shisha cafes. Measures included special surveillance teams, intelligence-based patrols and the use of CCTV cameras linked to the Safe City system.
The latest court order keeps all shisha cafes in Islamabad closed until the government establishes the required regulatory framework.
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