The Lahore High Court has refused to immediately reopen vape and e-cigarette shops that were recently sealed by the Punjab government. These shops were closed following a new ban on the sale and use of vape products in the province.
A group of traders affected by the ban filed a petition in court, asking for the shops to be reopened. They argued that the federal government still allows the import of vape and e-cigarette products, and they had been running their businesses legally, paying all necessary taxes and duties.
The traders also said that the Constitution gives every citizen the right to do legal business. They claimed the Punjab government’s sudden ban is unfair and has been enforced without any proper legal rules or support for those who depend on this business.
During the hearing on Monday, the court listened to the traders’ arguments but did not grant their request to immediately reopen the shops. The judge said the case needs more detailed examination and responses from key government officials before a final decision can be made.
The court has sent notices to the Punjab chief secretary, home secretary, and Lahore’s police chief, asking them to respond before the next hearing. The case has been postponed until these replies are received.
This issue remains important for many small business owners in Punjab who rely on the vape industry for their income.