The Lahore High Court on Monday declined to immediately order the reopening of vape and e-cigarette shops sealed under the Punjab government’s recent ban, while seeking responses from top provincial authorities.

The judge heard the petition challenging the Punjab government’s ban on the sale and use of vape and e-cigarette products. The court issued notices to the Punjab chief secretary, home secretary, and capital city police officer (CCPO), directing them to submit their replies at the next hearing.

The petition was filed by a group of traders affected by the crackdown. Arguing before the court, the petitioners contended that the federal government permits the import of vape and e-cigarette products, and that they were running their businesses legally by paying all relevant customs duties.

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They further asserted that the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to engage in lawful business, and that the Punjab government’s blanket ban violates this fundamental right.

According to the petitioners, the provincial government has acted unilaterally by banning vape-related products without providing any legal framework or offering alternative options to legal traders.

The court, however, declined the request to immediately de-seal vape shops, stating that the matter requires a detailed hearing and input from the concerned provincial departments.

The case has been adjourned, with the next hearing date to be set after receiving responses from the named officials.