Case Against Virat Kohli's Restaurant For Not Having Smoking Area

The Cubbon Park Police have registered a case against the restaurant for violating provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act.

Virat owns One8 Commune which has its chains in Delhi and Mumbai too.

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Bengaluru-based One8 Commune, a pub and restaurant owned by Indian cricketer Virat Kohli, has once again come under legal scrutiny. The Cubbon Park Police have registered a case against the restaurant for violating provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) by not having a dedicated smoking area.

The popular Bengaluru pub One8 Commune is once again facing legal heat following a surprise check by the city police. The latest action adds to the growing list of regulatory challenges the establishment has encountered over the past year.

A team of officers led by Sub-Inspector Ashwini G. conducted an unannounced inspection at the pub, which operates out of Kasturba Road—barely 200 metres from the local police station. Following the spot check, authorities booked the pub's manager and staff for non-compliance with operational regulations. 

Past Controversies

This isn't the first time One8 Commune has attracted attention from authorities. In July 2024, the same police station had registered a case against the venue for violating closing-time rules. The pub was allegedly open beyond 1 AM and playing loud music, activities that triggered multiple noise complaints from nearby residents. At the time, it was among three high-profile outlets in Bengaluru’s Central Business District flagged for similar late-night violations.

In December, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) issued a notice to the pub for operating without obtaining a mandatory No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Fire Department. The establishment, which is located on the sixth floor of Ratnams Complex, reportedly lacked crucial fire safety measures. This issue was brought to light after a complaint was filed by a local social activist, prompting a site inspection by BBMP officials from the Shantinagar zone.

With multiple red flags raised by both civic and law enforcement authorities, the pub may now be under sustained scrutiny. Whether One8 Commune takes corrective action or faces more severe consequences remains to be seen.