The Islamabad High Court has stopped authorities from taking any coercive measures against sheesha cafes that are operating legally in the federal capital. The written order was issued on Saturday, just days after the Islamabad Deputy Commissioner imposed a complete ban on all sheesha cafes.
During the hearing, the IHC expressed serious concern over the lack of a proper legal framework for these establishments. The court directed the federal government to finalise clear rules for sheesha cafes within one month and submit a compliance report. It also asked the federal cabinet to quickly approve laws that will regulate and restrict sheesha smoking.
The high court made it clear that protecting the younger generation from drugs and sheesha remains the government’s responsibility. At the same time, it ordered that restaurants and cafes working according to the law must not face any unlawful action. Strict legal proceedings should only be taken where the law or permit conditions are actually violated.
Islamabad police have been told to continue strict action only against illegal sheesha cafes. The Anti-Narcotics Force has also been directed to fully cooperate with the police in eliminating drugs. The court noted that children as young as 14 and 15 years had been found at some of these places during earlier raids.
The district administration informed the court that NOCs for sheesha cafes are currently being issued under a temporary arrangement until formal rules are approved. All such NOCs have been given without any fee. According to the administration, sheesha is allowed only in open-air uncovered areas following earlier high court directions and World Health Organisation guidelines. A separate written terrace permit from the assistant commissioner is compulsory for outdoor service.
Fire safety arrangements will be regularly inspected. Officials can also carry out checks, add further conditions and take legal action if public complaints are received.
The IHC ordered that all related petitions on sheesha cafes should be clubbed together. The next hearing is fixed for October 13.
This order comes after Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon issued a complete ban on September 9 that covered both indoor and outdoor cafes, including those holding NOCs. Under that ban, any violation would lead to sealing of the premises and registration of an FIR against the owner.
The court’s latest decision now provides temporary protection to legal operators while pushing the government to create a proper regulatory system.
