Bengaluru police on high alert for New Year’s Eve, impose strict rules on pubs, hotels and restaurants

BENGALURU: As New Year’s Eve approaches, the Bengaluru City Police have imposed strict rules on pubs, hotels, and restaurants, making it mandatory for them to obtain permits from three departments — police, fire and emergency services, and excise.

City Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh has made it clear that any establishment that fails to obtain clearance from any one of these departments will not be allowed to host New Year’s Eve parties.

The police, fire, and excise departments have already begun inspecting pubs, hotels, and restaurants to ensure compliance with safety norms. The inspections will focus on fire safety, emergency exits, and the availability of fire extinguishers, among other things. The excise department will also be monitoring the sale of liquor and checking for any illicit activities.

The police have also warned that they will not allow any party to be held on rooftops or in open, and that organisers will be held responsible for any untoward incidents. The police have also announced plans to crack down on drug use and sales during the New Year celebrations, and have urged residents to report any suspicious activity.

In the light of the Goa pub incident, the police have emphasised the importance of adhering to safety norms and have warned that establishments that fail to comply will face action. The police have also announced that CCTV cameras will be mandatory in celebration and dancing areas, and that only those establishments that comply with all norms will be allowed to host New Year’s Eve parties.