Introduction

India banned e-cigarettes in 2019 to protect public health. The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019 stops the production, sale, import, export, transport, storage, and advertisement of e-cigarettes. Sections 5 to 10 of this law explain the punishments and enforcement rules. Anyone breaking these rules can face jail time and heavy fines.

Is Storage of E-Cigarettes Banned

Keeping e-cigarettes in any place is against the law. If a person allows their house, shop, or warehouse to be used for storing e-cigarettes, they can be punished. The penalty is up to six months in jail, a fine up to ₹50,000, or both.

Who Has The Power to Search and Seize E-cigarettes

Police officers and other authorised officials can search places and take away e-cigarettes without a warrant. This power helps stop illegal trade quickly and ensures violators are caught on time.

What Is The Punishment for Sale, Production, and Import

Making, selling, or importing e-cigarettes is a serious offence. For the first offence, punishment is up to one year in jail, a fine of ₹1 lakh, or both. Moreover, for repeat offences, punishment increases to up to three years in jail, a fine of ₹5 lakh, or both. This strict rule actually discourages people from breaking the law again.
If someone stores e-cigarettes illegally, they face the same punishment as Section 5, six months in jail, a fine up to ₹50,000, or both.

Was There Disposal of Seized Stock In 2019

People who had e-cigarettes before the ban came into force (September 19, 2019) had to declare them and hand them over to the authorities. The law makes sure that seized products are properly destroyed so they do not come back into the market.

Nature of Offences

Breaking this law is a cognizable offence, which means the police can arrest without a warrant. However, only authorised officers can file a case under this Act. The cases are heard by a Judicial Magistrate of the First Class.

Who Does This Law Affect

This law affects both individuals and businesses. Shops, online sellers, and even airports are under strict checks. Authorities regularly seize shipments of e-cigarettes at borders and airports. Even carrying e-cigarettes for personal use can be risky, as it may be seen as illegal storage or transport. For any specific query call at ‪+91 – 8569843472‬

Conclusion

The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019 makes it clear that e-cigarettes are banned in India. Sections 5 to 10 provide punishments ranging from six months to three years in jail and fines between ₹50,000 and ₹5 lakh. Repeat offenders face stricter action. The law gives strong powers to officers to seize products and punish violators. For ordinary people, this means storing, selling, or carrying e-cigarettes can lead to serious legal trouble.