Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has issued a stern warning to all pubs and bars across Maharashtra in the wake of the recent Porsche hit-and-run incident in Pune. Speaking in the state assembly, Fadnavis emphasized the need for establishments to strictly adhere to norms prohibiting the service of alcohol to minors.
Implementation of Stringent Measures
“All pubs and bars must ensure compliance with regulations,” Fadnavis declared, highlighting the mandatory installation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) enabled CCTV cameras. These cameras are intended to verify whether age verification procedures are being rigorously followed. Any establishment found serving liquor to minors will face immediate suspension of their license, accompanied by criminal charges against the owner.
Legal Actions and Accountability
In response to the Pune incident, legal actions have been initiated, including registering a case against Vishal Agrawal, the father of the minor involved in the hit-and-run. Agrawal faces charges for failing to complete the registration of the imported Porsche vehicle before it was driven on public roads. Additionally, scrutiny will be directed towards Regional Transport Office (RTO) officers to determine if any facilitated Agrawal’s evasion of registration requirements.
Police Oversight and Accountability
Fadnavis acknowledged procedural lapses within the Pune Police’s handling of the incident, including delays in informing senior officers and in conducting a timely medical examination of the minor accused. Despite these shortcomings, Fadnavis expressed confidence in the Pune Police Commissioner’s handling of the case, noting the gathering of substantial technical and legal evidence against the accused.
ATS Authorization for Drug Investigations
Furthermore, Fadnavis informed the assembly of the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) being granted permission to investigate matters related to drugs, particularly to uncover any potential links to terror funding.
Legislative Response and Opposition Concerns
The announcement by Fadnavis follows criticisms from opposition leaders regarding the handling of the Porsche case and broader concerns about illegal pub operations and drug-related issues in Pune. Leaders such as Sunil Prabhu, Vijjay Wadettiwar, Nana Patole, and Rohit Pawar have raised questions about police integrity and the governance of pub establishments in the city.
