Archive · 31 May 2025
Karnataka Enacts Stricter Tobacco Laws, Raising Fines & Age
Karnataka, India has toughened its tobacco laws.
The state increased the fine for using tobacco in public places to ₹1,000.
Also, you now have to be at least 20 years old to buy tobacco.
These changes are part of the COTPA law, aiming to protect public health.
Hookah bars are now illegal everywhere.
The authorities are enforcing these new rules in hotels, bars, restaurants, and other public locations to ensure no one is exposed to second hand smoke.
These changes are to stop people, especially young people, from using tobacco products.
Karnataka amended the COTPA, increasing fines for violations.
The maximum fine for tobacco-related violations increased to ₹1,000.
The legal age to purchase tobacco products is now 20 years old.
Hookah bars are now completely banned in Karnataka.
The amendments were approved on May 23 and published on May 30.
- Who
- Karnataka government enacted changes, affecting tobacco users and businesses.
- What
- Karnataka increased fines, age limits, and banned hookah bars under COTPA.
- When
- Amendments were approved on May 23, published on May 30.
- Where
- Karnataka, India.
- Why
- To curb tobacco use and improve public health.
- Maximum Fine for Violations
- ₹1,000
- Minimum Age to Buy Tobacco
- 20 years
- Hookah Bars
- Ban
- Legislation
- Amendment to COTPA
