Pune Police Commissioner Meets Hotel And Bar Owners, Now Revised Guidelines To Be Issued
Sumit Singh
Pune, 28th February 2024: In a significant development, representatives from various hotel associations in Pune, including the United Hospitality Association (UHA) and the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), held a crucial meeting with Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar.
The meeting aimed to address concerns raised by the hospitality sector regarding Commissioner Kumar’s directives issued on February 19th under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) affecting bars, restaurants, pubs, and rooftop establishments in the city.
Hoteliers expressed several grievances, primarily focusing on the operational hindrances caused by the recent order. Notable issues raised during the meeting included police interventions at 10 pm to music systems, stringent CCTV coverage requirements (excluding washrooms), and an outright ban on hookahs. Some hoteliers urged the Police Commissioner to reconsider the prohibition of herbal hookahs, emphasizing their alignment with state government guidelines and their popularity among patrons frequenting clubs and bars.
Assurances were provided during the meeting, with the Police Commissioner stating that establishments could now conclude operations and close their doors before 2 am. Furthermore, police presence for routine checks will be delayed until 1:45 am unless prompted by a complaint.
In response to concerns about potential drug-related activities within the nightlife industry, Commissioner Amitesh Kumar urged cooperation from hotel associations, requesting them to report any instances of drug sales by bouncers or managers promptly. He also appealed them to report any bar operating without valid liquor license.
Commissioner Amitesh Kumar acknowledged the challenges faced by the hospitality sector, assuring a thorough review and revision of the existing 144 section order after March 4th.
When asked about the herbal hookah, he said that the revised order will be issued keeping in view the conerns and suggestions of the stakeholders.
Ajinkya Shinde, a member of the United Hospitality Association (UHA), commended Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar, describing him as cooperative and attentive to the industry’s concerns. Shinde also proposed a collaborative initiative between clubs and the police to promote responsible drinking habits and discourage driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The initiative aims to encourage patrons to use designated drivers, autos, or taxis after consuming alcohol.
Advocate Mahua Narayan, Secretary of the United Hospitality Association, voiced profound concerns regarding the premature closure of restaurants and bars in adherence to Section 144. Expressing the industry’s apprehensions, Narain emphasized the need for clear guidelines to ensure minimal disruption to business operations.
In a commendable initiative, the UHA announced a large-scale campaign across partner restaurants to promote awareness against drunk driving and support the Commissioner’s endeavors in combating substance abuse.
The meeting, attended by senior members of the United Hospitality Association and allied associations, underscored a collaborative effort to navigate regulatory challenges while fostering a conducive environment for the hospitality sector in Pune City.
