The Pune city police have decided to extend the imposition of Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) until March 31. This extension comes after a meeting between all stakeholders and the police on February 28, during which suggestions and objections were discussed, leading to the formulation of a revised order issued on Monday.
In a late evening notification, Pune police outlined 26 guidelines aimed at ensuring a safe and secure environment while maintaining peace in the city. Notable among these guidelines is the strict adherence of all bars and permit rooms to the closing time limit of 1:30 am. Indoor music performances are limited until 1:30 am, while outdoor music performances should conclude by 10:00 pm.
According to the updated orders, no orders for food and liquor are to be taken after 1:15 am, allowing a 30-minute grace period for establishments to vacate. This adjustment follows the earlier order, which prohibited orders after 1:00 am. Pune police emphasized that stakeholders must adhere to the guidelines for the collective benefit of the community.
Ganesh Shetty, president of the Pune Restaurants and Hoteliers Association (PRAHA), expressed concerns about some police officials pressuring restaurant owners to close by 11:30 pm. He advocated for allowing businesses to operate until 1:30 am and requested police not to intervene in liquor-related cases, as per government regulations handled by the state excise department.
In response, police officials assured that all police stations’ heads were instructed not to hinder restaurant operations by forcing early closures. The law allows operations until 1:30 am, and police affirmed that they would not intervene in liquor-related cases unless law-and-order issues arise. Detailed orders regarding these instructions are expected to be released soon.
