The Punjab government has officially banned the sale and purchase of vapes across the province. The decision, approved by the provincial cabinet, includes the immediate closure of all vaping centers.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced the move during a cabinet meeting in Lahore, citing serious health risks posed to the younger generation by the rising trend of vaping. She directed the district administration to launch a province-wide crackdown on vaping centers, including those in Lahore.
Maryam Nawaz emphasized that the unchecked use of electronic cigarettes among youth is leading to addiction and long-term health problems. The government’s action aims to protect public health and prevent further harm to young people. Authorities have been instructed to enforce the ban strictly and shut down all illegal vaping centers throughout Punjab.
Recently, veteran actress Hina Bayat also addressed the issue of vaping among youngsters, making her displeasure with the viral trend known during an interview on a talk show.
I was present during the hearing. Initially, the judge seemed skeptical. He questioned our lawyer, asking in which countries vaping is banned, and mentioned that India has had a ban since 2019. He expressed concern that vaping is harming the younger generation and said there must be a reason why several countries are banning it.
However, he also questioned the Additional Advocate General (AAG), stating that the cabinet alone cannot impose a ban without proper legal backing. He emphasized that legislation should be created and that the Health Ministry should be consulted. He even remarked that while the cabinet meeting was ongoing, many ministers likely had vapes in their own pockets.
In conclusion, the judge granted relief by ordering that all vape shops be desealed and that the sale and transportation of vaping products be allowed.
He jokingly mentioned that “my heart is on the other side (the ban)” and noted with a smile that many people in the courtroom seemed happy upon hearing the decision.