By ETF Desk
A Manipal cafe manager and eight others were booked by the police for allegedly using hookahs in the district, sparking controversy over the use of the smoking device. The incident has raised concerns about the growing popularity of hookahs in Udupi, with many residents questioning the safety and health implications of such activities.
The police booked the cafe manager and eight others under the Karnataka Prohibition of Smoking and Consumption of Tobacco Products Act, 2001. The move has been welcomed by locals who have been pushing for stricter laws against hookah use. However, some cafe owners have expressed concerns that the crackdown may affect their businesses, which rely heavily on hookah sales.
The incident has also sparked a debate about the need for more stringent regulations on hookah use in public places. While some argue that hookahs are a harmless form of entertainment, others point out that they can pose serious health risks, including nicotine addiction and respiratory problems. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the use of hookahs in Udupi is a contentious issue that requires careful consideration and regulation.
Source: Google News – Manipal.