{
  "id": 6906132,
  "title": "IHC prohibits ‘coercive measures’ against legal sheesha cafes",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/12/ihc-prohibits-coercive-measures-against-legal-sheesha-cafes",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-12T10:23:42.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Dawn",
    "slug": "dawn",
    "url": "https://www.dawn.com/news/2029360/ihc-prohibits-coercive-measures-against-legal-sheesha-cafes"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has prohibited authorities from employing coercive measures against legally operating sheesha cafes that serve the product in accordance with permits issued by the relevant authorities. The court's written order, following proceedings on September 9, reiterated the directive for the district administration to draft comprehensive rules and regulations for sheesha cafes within a month. While the IHC stressed the need for lawful action against illegal activities and narcotics offences, it clarified that no coercive measures should be taken against establishments that operate lawfully and serve sheesha as per their permits. The court also emphasized the responsibility of authorities to protect public health and shield the younger generation from smoking, substance abuse, and unlawful practices. The Prohibition of Sheesha Smoking Rules 2023 remains pending before the federal government, and a compliance report has been asked for. The matter is scheduled for relisting on October 13.",
  "summary": "The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Saturday barred authorities from taking “coercive measures” against eateries legally operating and serving sheesha under permits or licences issued by the relevant authorities. The written order, seen by Dawn , was issued for the proceedings held on September 9 (Wednesday), when the IHC directed the district administration to formulate comprehensive rules and…",
  "key_points": [
    "Islamabad High Court prohibits coercive measures against legal sheesha cafes.",
    "Court directs district administration to draft rules for sheesha cafes within a month.",
    "Emphasizes protecting public health and shielding younger generation from smoking."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Dawn - Pakistan",
        "title": "IHC prohibits ‘coercive measures’ against legal sheesha cafes",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/12/ihc-prohibits-coercive-measures-against-legal-sheesha-cafes-6906417",
        "published": "2026-09-12T10:23:42.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}