Islamabad (Digital Post) Piyass International calls for crackdown on illegal sheesha cafes in Islamabad

Islamabad (Digital Post): A local human rights organization has urged top government and judicial authorities to launch immediate legal action against a growing number of illegal sheesha cafes operating in the federal capital, warning that these establishments are endangering public health and violating court orders.

In a formal appeal addressed to the President, Prime Minister, Chief Justices of the Supreme Court and Islamabad High Court, Interior Minister, and senior administrative officials of Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), the Non Governmental Organisation (NGO), Piyass International expressed grave concern over the unchecked rise of unlicensed sheesha cafes allegedly involved in the sale of illicit drugs and pills, some even to minors.

“These sheesha cafes are not only operating without licenses but are also serving minors and promoting a harmful culture that undermines public health and safety,” said Rana Taimoor, General Manager Admin of Piyass International.

Established in 2005, Piyass International works on a range of social issues including human rights, child labour, drug abuse, prisoner rights, and human trafficking. The organization emphasized that the ongoing operations of these illegal outlets are in direct violation of the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance, 2002, and amount to contempt of court, given past directives from both the Supreme Court and Islamabad High Court.

The NGO pointed out that Article 9 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to life, is being undermined by the inaction of concerned authorities. The Supreme Court and Islamabad High Court have, on multiple occasions, directed law enforcement and civic bodies to shut down illegal sheesha cafes and protect the health of citizens.

“We respectfully urge the relevant authorities to seal and permanently close all illegal sheesha cafes in Islamabad in strict compliance with judicial orders,” the letter concluded.

Civic activists and public health experts have long raised alarms about the health risks associated with sheesha smoking, particularly among youth, calling for stricter enforcement of anti-smoking laws in public spaces.