IPL 2026: Could Riyan Parag face time in prison? Here’s what the law says about e-cigarette use in India

IPL 2026: Could Riyan Parag face time in prison? Here’s what the law says about e-cigarette use (Source : Jiostar)

Rajasthan Royals skipper Riyan Parag finds himself in a fresh controversy after being caught on camera allegedly smoking a vape in the dressing room during the Royals’ victory against the Punjab Kings at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Stadium in Mullanpur.

While there is no official confirmation on whether action will be taken against the Royals’ skipper by the BCCI or the IPL governing body, reports suggest that disciplinary procedures might be underway.

The IPL Code of Conduct addresses incidents and behaviours that bring the game into disrepute. Under Law 2.2 of the code, the match referee can issue a reprimand, and a match fee, fine, or suspension is also a possible outcome. IPL venues and dressing rooms are non-smoking areas designated under the BCCI protocol. BCCI prohibits the use of tobacco and similar products in these spaces.

Legal implications of the issue

India has banned e-cigarettes under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA), 2019. The act prohibits production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale, distribution, storage and advertisement of e-cigarettes.

First-time offenders under PECA can be imprisoned for up to one year, with a fine of INR 1 lakh being levied on the perpetrator. They could face either one or both penalties together. Repeat offenders could face up to three years of imprisonment, with a fine of INR 5 lakhs. Storage of e-cigarettes could result in a six-month imprisonment.

The Union Health Ministry clarified in 2023 that PECA also covers personal possession of the product. This applies regardless of whether the intent is commercial or personal. Usage of e-cigarettes in public spaces also falls under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, which carries separate fines.

What does the law state?

“On and from the date of commencement of this Act, no person shall, directly or indirectly, —

(i) produce or manufacture or import or export or transport or sell or distribute electronic cigarettes, whether as a complete product or any part thereof; and(ii) advertise electronic cigarettes or take part in any advertisement that directly or indirectly promotes the use of electronic cigarettes,” says Section 4 of the PECA.

“Whoever contravenes the provisions of section 4, shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to one year or with fine which may extend to one lakh rupees, or with both, and, for the second or subsequent offence, with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years and with fine which may extend to five lakh rupees,” says Section 7.

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