Pune Video: Extended Pub & Bar Hours Till 5 AM For New Year Celebration Spark Protests From NCP-SP | Video Screengrab
Party workers of NCP-SP staged a protest at Good Luck Chowk on FC Road in Pune on Tuesday against the Maharashtra government’s decision to allow pubs, bars and hotels to remain open until 5am for New Year celebrations. The protesters criticised the move, alleging it encourages irresponsible behaviour and disrupts Pune’s cultural fabric.
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Rihan Piagude, Vice President of NCP-SP Yuva Morcha, said, “For their own benefit, the government is spoiling the youth of Pune. The administration has given permission under the guidance of the ruling government. In opposition to the decision, we are going to conduct a whole-day protest at several places across the city. We will convey our message to the public through different tactics.”
Swati Pokale, a party worker, said, “For the past few months, we have seen how drug activity has risen in pubs and bars. Hit-and-run cases have been on the rise. The Mahayuti government is endorsing this kind of criminal activity. We are strictly opposing the government’s decision and urging them to reverse it soon.”
Kishore Kamble, another party member, said, “Pune is known as a hub of education and culture. Many students from across the country come here to learn. The administration has given licensed owners free rein to serve alcohol until 5am. If hit-and-run cases occur after 5am, who will be responsible? We are demanding the deadline be reduced to 12am.”
Meanwhile, even as the deadline for pubs and bars has been extended till 5am, the Pune Police has warned action against those who would be found driving vehicles after consuming alcohol during that time. Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar said 17 spots have been identified where people will gather for New Year celebrations. He said police would be keeping a close watch on these spots to prevent any untoward incident and maintain the law and order situation. Kumar also said action would be carried out at 23 spots against drunk driving. He has appealed to people to avoid driving after consuming alcohol. He also warned action against pubs, bars and nightspots to follow the rules strictly.
