Riyan Parag’s vaping footage in Rajasthan Royals’ locker room during IPL 2026 against Punjab Kings stirs debate over India’s e-cigarette prohibition under PECA.

Riyan Parag’s vaping footage in Rajasthan Royals' locker room during IPL 2026 against Punjab Kings stirs debate over India’s e-cigarette prohibition under PECA.
A clip featuring Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag seemingly using what appeared to be a vape in the team’s dressing room during their IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings on Tuesday, April 28, has gone viral. The footage was recorded during the 16th over of the second innings and subsequently shared across social media.

The event occurred shortly after Parag’s dismissal during the chase, having scored 29 runs off 16 balls before getting out.

Social media reactions have been intense in response to the video’s circulation.
One user remarked, “His 15-year-old teammate demonstrates more maturity… #riyanparag is leading an #IPL franchise and appears oblivious to the rules.”

Another user commented, “Riyan Parag was seen vaping in the dressing room; how is this permitted? BCCI, what’s going on?” while a third inquired, “Riyan Parag was using Vape in the dressing room. Is that permitted??”

The issue has garnered attention due to strict regulations governing stadium and dressing room areas, where smoking is prohibited outside designated zones. Additionally, the situation raises concerns regarding India’s laws on electronic cigarettes.

According to the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA), 2019, the production, sale, purchase, import, export, and advertisement of e-cigarettes and vapes are banned in India.

The legislation imposes penalties for breaches, which may include fines and imprisonment. This Act came into effect on September 18, 2019, excluding products governed by the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.

Notwithstanding the controversy, Rajasthan Royals ultimately secured a victory, successfully chasing down a target of 222 runs with six wickets left. This result also marked Punjab Kings’ first loss of the season.

Earlier in the tournament, Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder faced a fine of Rs 1 lakh and an official warning for using a mobile phone in the dugout during their IPL 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on April 10.

The Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) of the BCCI also issued a show-cause notice to him regarding the incident, requesting a response within 48 hours.

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