In blatant violation of the existing norms, several bars and pubs in Bhubaneswar are operating beyond the permissible time throughout the night. Such violations have come to the fore through several social media posts of individuals. The videos posted on the timeline of several users have now exposed such irregularities, thereby prompting the authorities to swing into action.
The Excise Commissioner Narasingha Bhol on Monday informed that instructions are being issued to officers to conduct an inspection and take appropriate legal action against the violators.
“Usually for the on-shops and bars in Bhubaneswar, permission is granted for an additional one and a half hours on weekends. Buffer time of 30 minutes is allowed to wind up things and lock the units,” said Bhol.
The Excise Commissioner further said that special drives will be conducted from today and if any bars are violating, hefty fines will be imposed and the license will be cancelled for repeated violations.
“We are issuing directions to inspect various bars, and clubs which are operating beyond the specified time period. Special surveillance will be carried out on weekends,” said Bhol.
Action Against Erring Officers
On reports that some officers are not taking appropriate action against the violators, the Excise Commissioner said that be it Excise officials or range officers they will inspect and take appropriate legal action against the violators if they get any complaints from the public. If such officers do not act on such complaints, action would be taken against them including disciplinary action, he added.