Is Virat Kohli’s Bengaluru Pub Facing Legal Trouble Over Smoking Zone Violations?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, cricketer Virat Kohli's pub in Bengaluru, One 8 Commune, is under fire for violating smoking regulations. This incident raises questions about compliance in the hospitality sector. Are celebrity-owned establishments facing stricter scrutiny? Read on to find out more!
Key Takeaways
- One 8 Commune is facing legal action for smoking zone violations.
- Inspection by Cubbon Park Police revealed the absence of a designated smoking area.
- The establishment has a history of regulatory breaches.
- Compliance with health and safety regulations is vital for public trust.
- Celebrity-owned businesses are not exempt from legal scrutiny.
Bengaluru, June 2 (NationPress) The pub and restaurant One 8 Commune, owned by cricketer Virat Kohli, found itself in hot water on Monday for allegedly breaching regulations concerning designated smoking areas on its premises. The Cubbon Park Police have initiated a suo-motu case against the establishment for violations under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA).
This enforcement action against the cricketer-promoted eatery follows a recent campaign by the Bengaluru police aimed at curbing smoking-related infractions at dining and nightlife venues.
An FIR has been lodged against the restaurant, which is situated on the sixth floor of Ratnams Complex on Kasturba Road near Chinnaswamy Stadium, under Sections 4 and 21 of COTPA for lacking a designated smoking area.
The FIR states there was no dedicated zone for smoking within the pub. During a routine inspection, police identified these violations and subsequently charged the pub's manager and staff.
This is not the first time the restaurant has faced legal scrutiny for alleged breaches. Last year, it received notice from the Bengaluru civic authorities for purportedly flouting fire safety regulations.
The pub had been cited for neglecting mandated fire safety protocols and for failing to secure a No Objection Certificate from the fire department.
Furthermore, in June 2024, the pub, along with other businesses in the complex, encountered issues for operating past the legally permitted hours, leading to a police case against it.
Records indicated that the pub was operating beyond the allowable limit of 1 AM.
Point of View
It is crucial to emphasize that compliance with health regulations is non-negotiable, irrespective of ownership. As the hospitality sector evolves, adherence to laws like COTPA ensures public safety and reinforces the trust between establishments and their patrons.
NationPress
30/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What violations was One 8 Commune charged with?
One 8 Commune was charged with violations under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) for not having a designated smoking area.
Who owns One 8 Commune?
One 8 Commune is owned by cricketer Virat Kohli.
What previous violations has One 8 Commune faced?
The pub was previously put on notice for violating fire safety regulations and was also cited for operating beyond permitted hours.
Where is One 8 Commune located?
One 8 Commune is located on the sixth floor of Ratnams Complex on Kasturba Road near Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
What actions have the police taken against the pub?
The police have registered a suo-motu case and filed an FIR against the restaurant's management for the violations.
