Munawar Faruqui's apprehension occurred during a raid that commenced at approximately 10:30 pm on Tuesday and extended until 5 am on Wednesday, as confirmed by an official source.
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Stand-up comedian and reality TV personality Munawar Faruqui was among
14 individuals apprehended during a police operation at a Mumbai hookah lounge,
as reported on Wednesday. The winner of Big Boss 17 was subsequently released,
as confirmed by the news agency ANI, quoting a Mumbai police spokesperson.
According to authorities, the hookah establishment in Mumbai's Fort area
was operating unlawfully, leading to the confiscation of ₹4,400 in cash and
nine hookahs valued at ₹13,500 during the Tuesday raid, which commenced around
10:30 pm and concluded at 5 am on Wednesday, as stated by an official.
A case has been filed under sections of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco
Products Act, with ongoing investigations at the site, police disclosed. A
senior police official informed news agency PTI that during the raid, Faruqui
and others were found smoking hookahs, with video evidence of their activities.
While initially detained, they were later released as the charges against them
were bailable.
Faruqui and the others were issued notices before being permitted to
depart, the official added. The 32-year-old, known for his comedic performances
and rap talents on YouTube, gained prominence in recent years.
He first garnered attention in 2021 when he faced a month-long
imprisonment following complaints of religious sentiment infringement due to
remarks made about Hindu deities during a stand-up routine. Subsequently,
amidst threats from right-wing factions leading to the cancellation of a dozen
shows, he announced his retirement from comedy.
In 2022, Faruqui staged a comeback through the reality TV series
"Lock Upp," where contestants resided in a simulated jail
environment, undertaking tasks to earn money as "inmates," ultimately
emerging as the winner of the inaugural season.