In a significant legal development, the Lahore High Court has directed the immediate de-sealing of vape shops across Punjab, offering interim relief to dealers affected by the provincial government’s recent crackdown. The decision comes after a petition was filed by 74 vape shopkeepers, including major retailers like Vape Mall, challenging the sudden closure of their businesses.
Justice Anwar Hussain issued the written order on Tuesday, stating that the provincial administration failed to provide any valid legal justification for sealing the shops. The court instructed authorities to halt further action against vape retailers until a final decision is reached on the pending appeal.
Also Read: Lahore High Court Halts Crackdown, Grants Relief to Vape Shops
During the hearing, the Punjab government’s law officer was unable to present any solid legal grounds supporting the closures. The petitioners argued that their businesses were legally registered, operating under federal regulations, and that the ban was enforced without due process, causing substantial financial losses.
The court has granted the Punjab government additional time to submit a formal response and adjourned the proceedings until July 3. The chief secretary, home secretary, and Lahore’s capital city police officer have been named respondents in the case.
The provincial ban, imposed on June 3 by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, was aimed at curbing the rising use of vapes among youth. However, petitioners contend that the unilateral action lacked a legal framework and infringed on their constitutional right to conduct lawful business.
