In a bid to regulate the operating hours of hospitality establishments, the Pune Rural Police have issued a directive instructing hotels, restaurants, bars, permit rooms, and hookah parlors within its jurisdiction to close by 12.30 am. The order, effective from March 7, emphasizes strict adherence to the designated closing time, with establishments failing to comply facing potential consequences.
The directive outlines specific guidelines, stating that indoor music performances must conclude by 12.30 am, while outdoor events and performances should cease by 10 pm. Furthermore, no food or alcohol service will be permitted to patrons after midnight.
To reinforce responsible drinking, the police have urged establishments to display signage warning against drunk driving and assign staff members to monitor patrons who may attempt to leave the premises by car after hours.
In addition to these measures, establishments are expected to adhere closely to noise standards and strictly follow guidelines for smoking and alcohol service. The directive has been issued under Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) section 144.
This move comes shortly after the Pune City police’s issuance of a similar order on March 5, under section 144 of the CrPC, urging bars, eateries, pubs, and rooftop restaurants in the city to inform patrons about the legal consequences of “drunk and drive.”
In Pune City, the police have directed outdoor events and performances to conclude by 10 pm, while indoor music performances at establishments must end by 1.30 am. The directive requires bars and permit rooms in the city to shut their doors by 1.30 am, strictly adhering to the prescribed closing time.
