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According to the IPL Code of Conduct, smoking inside the dressing room and dugout is not allowed. Vapes and e-cigarettes also fall under this rule. Since the clip was taken during live broadcast, Match Referee can report it directly. After that, report can be escalated to BCCI CEO and eventually, hearing may be arranged with the Ombudsman.

According to the board’s guidelines, various forms of penalties are applicable including official warning, fine, and ban from one or more matches. Additionally, there is a demerit points system for offenses. These points are recorded for 36 months, and reaching them can result in suspension of team or player from the tournament.

For a first-time offender, warning or fine is usually imposed; however, the live exposure of Parag’s action could encourage the board to take strict action.

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This isn't a simple mistake as the Indian government had banned the use of e-cigarettes under a law enacted in 2019. Carrying one is an offence and offenders may be liable for a penalty of Rs 1 lakh for a first offense while they can be imprisoned or fined up to Rs 2 lakhs for repeat offenses.

Although a legal challenge mid-season isn't probable it clearly puts the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) under obligation to take some kind of action.

Parag was not in good form going into the game, scoring only 81 runs in eight innings with a low average of 13.50. Last season however, he had an amazing campaign and had his team backing him throughout.

A fine may not impact the Rajasthan Royals but a suspension could greatly impact their prospects at this stage of the competition, currently high on the points table. Parag's career may be at stake as all eyes will be on the reaction of the BCCI.