Trouble for Virat Kohli: Bengaluru Pub Hit with FIR for Breaking Smoking Rules

Bengaluru’s Cubbon Park Police filed a suo-motu FIR against One8 Commune, a popular pub co-owned by cricket star Virat Kohli, for violating the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). The upscale venue, located on Kasturba Road near M Chinnaswamy Stadium, was found lacking a designated smoking area during a surprise inspection, breaching Sections 4 and 21 of COTPA. The incident, part of a broader crackdown on public smoking, has sparked discussions on X about compliance in Bengaluru’s nightlife scene and Kohli’s business ventures.

COTPA Violation Sparks Action

The FIR followed a tip-off, prompting a police team led by Sub-Inspector Ashwini G to inspect One8 Commune. The pub, situated on the sixth floor of Ratnam’s Complex, failed to provide a dedicated smoking zone, a mandatory requirement under COTPA’s Section 4, which prohibits smoking in public places without proper facilities. Section 21 outlines penalties for non-compliance. The manager and staff were booked, with authorities emphasizing stricter enforcement of public health laws. X posts, including one from @ANI
, noted, “Kohli’s pub in trouble again!” reflecting public interest.

A Pattern of Regulatory Issues

This isn’t the first time One8 Commune has faced legal scrutiny. In July 2024, the Cubbon Park Police filed an FIR for operating past the 1 a.m. closing time, with loud music disturbing residents. In December 2024, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) issued a notice for lacking a Fire Department No Objection Certificate (NOC), raising safety concerns. X users have debated these recurring issues, with some questioning management oversight, while others defend Kohli, citing his focus on cricket, especially with RCB’s IPL 2025 success.

Bengaluru’s Nightlife Under Scrutiny

The crackdown on One8 Commune is part of a citywide campaign to enforce COTPA and other regulations. Four other establishments, including Flo and Social, were also booked for similar violations. The BBMP is pushing for tobacco sales licenses and stricter fire safety compliance, especially after past incidents like the Carlton Towers fire. X discussions highlight growing scrutiny of Bengaluru’s high-rise venues, with one user noting, “Nightlife needs to prioritize safety over vibes.”

What’s Next for One8 Commune?

Kohli, who hasn’t commented publicly, faces pressure to address these compliance issues. The FIR could lead to fines or operational restrictions, impacting the pub’s reputation. With branches in Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, One8 Commune’s Bengaluru outlet must navigate stricter regulations to regain trust. As the case unfolds, the incident underscores the challenges of balancing celebrity ventures with regulatory demands in India’s bustling urban centers.