In a recent turn of events, stand-up comedian and former reality TV star Munawar Faruqui found himself among 14 individuals detained during a police raid at a hookah parlour in Mumbai. According to reports, the raid was conducted in the city’s Fort area, targeting an allegedly illegal operation. Subsequent to the intervention, news agency ANI quoted a Mumbai police official confirming Faruqui’s release.
The raid, which commenced at around 10:30 pm on Tuesday and extended into the early hours of Wednesday, resulted in the seizure of cash amounting to ₹4,400 and nine hookah pots valued at ₹13,500. Authorities have taken action by registering a case under relevant sections of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, and investigations are ongoing at the scene.
During the operation, it was revealed that Faruqui and others were found smoking hookahs at the establishment. A senior police official informed news agency PTI that Faruqui, along with the other detainees, was initially apprehended but later permitted to leave, as the charges against them were bailable. They were served notices before being released from custody.
This incident isn’t the first time Faruqui has courted controversy. In 2021, he made headlines when complaints were filed against him for allegedly hurting religious sentiments after making remarks about Hindu deities during one of his stand-up shows. The ensuing legal battle led to Faruqui spending a month in jail. Following the ordeal and amid threats from right-wing groups, Faruqui announced his decision to step away from comedy, with several of his shows being cancelled.
However, in 2022, Faruqui made a comeback through the reality TV show “Lock Upp”, where participants lived in a simulated “jail” environment, undertaking tasks to earn money as “inmates”. Faruqui emerged as the winner of the show’s inaugural season, marking a significant chapter in his career.
The recent incident adds another layer to Faruqui’s eventful journey, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding his detainment and the legality of the hookah parlour. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Faruqui navigates through yet another episode of public scrutiny and legal challenges.
