Nagpur: The rapid increase in restaurants and hotels across Nagpur is seemingly indicative of a burgeoning food culture. However, recent media reports reveal a concerning trend: Many of these establishments have become hotspots for illegal liquor consumption, attracting youngsters for drinking sessions despite lacking valid permits for liquor service.
The Bombay Prohibition Act clearly prohibits the consumption of alcohol by individuals under the age of 21. Yet, numerous restaurants in Nagpur are disregarding this law, permitting liquor consumption among all age groups without the necessary permits. These establishments are primarily situated along major roads such as Amravati Road, Wardha Road, Kamptee Road, Umred Road, and both sides of the outer ring road. Notably, even central city areas like Bajaj Nagar Square have seen restaurants turning into hubs for illegal liquor consumption.
Between April 2023 and March 2024, the Excise Department sources said that approximately 130 restaurants were serving liquor without valid permits. This significant breach of regulations highlights a systemic issue in the enforcement of alcohol laws in Nagpur. An official from the Excise Department emphasized that stringent actions would be taken against these establishments, reaffirming the strictness of the rules governing liquor sales and consumption.
These restaurants often operate with the primary aim of attracting customers for drinking sessions, staying open until 2 am. They have encroached upon the land of Panjabrao Krishi Vidyapeeth near Bajaj Nagar Square, with their business thriving despite legal prohibitions. The pricing of food items in these restaurants is comparable to those in beer bars, suggesting a business model heavily reliant on liquor sales. If the illicit liquor consumption were to cease, it is likely that customer turnout would significantly drop.
According to a report, in response to these violations, the Nagpur police conducted undercover operations inspired by the Pune Porsche accident case. On a Saturday night, officers of various ranks, including Deputy Commissioner of Police and Assistant Commissioner of Police, posed as customers to gather evidence of violations at several pubs and lounges. These covert activities, involving both male and female officers, continued until the establishments’ closing times, with the officers even paying entry charges and mingling with other patrons to avoid suspicion.
The undercover operations led to immediate actions against 7-8 pubs, lounges, and restaurants, with more actions anticipated. The police are also considering proposing the cancellation of licenses for the offending establishments. A detailed report documenting the violations of safety and licensing norms will be submitted to Commissioner of Police Ravinder Singal.
The proliferation of restaurants and hotels in Nagpur, while seemingly positive for the city’s food culture, has revealed a darker side with the rampant illegal liquor consumption. The violations of the Bombay Prohibition Act and the subsequent undercover operations by the police underscore the need for stricter enforcement and regulatory measures to curb this growing problem. The city’s authorities must continue to take decisive actions to ensure that these establishments comply with legal requirements, safeguarding the well-being of the community.
