Law and Order Under Question in Lucknow: Illegal Hookah Bar Operating Right in Front of Police Commissioner’s Residence

Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh): Once again, serious questions are being raised about law and order in the capital city of Uttar Pradesh. An illegal hookah bar named Grand Mama Hookah Bar, operating openly right in front of the Police Commissioner’s residence in the Hazratganj area, has become the center of controversy. When such blatant violations of the law are happening so close to the top cop’s house, it raises doubts about the enforcement of law and order across the city.

This hookah bar reportedly operates throughout the night, flouting norms with impunity. Despite being located just a short distance from the local police station, no strict action has been taken so far. Local residents and social organizations have expressed serious concerns over its illegal operation.

Disturbingly, reports suggest that underage girls are being employed at the establishment—an outright violation of child protection laws. There have also been recent incidents of brawls and fights at the venue, yet the police have allegedly failed to act decisively.

Illegal hookah bars operating under the guise of cafés and restaurants have become common in Lucknow. While the law explicitly bans hookah bars, lax administration and alleged collusion with local police have allowed such venues to flourish, pushing youth into the trap of addiction.

Though the police occasionally carry out token operations under the guise of “good work” to improve their public image, the ground reality tells a different story—illegal drug dens seem to have turned into a source of income for some in the force. This leads to a troubling question: Is the police itself complicit in the destruction of the youth?

All eyes are now on the administration and the state government to see if any concrete action will be taken, or if this issue will be buried under paperwork like so many others.