CP tightens noose around hotels to host New Year celebrations

Bhubaneswar: Sending a stern message to hotel and clubs gearing up for New Year bash, Police Commissioner YB Khurania today made it clear that under no circumstances public order and safety and security of citizens will be compromised.

Besides, no third party licence will be issued. Rather owners of hotels, clubs and other institutions have to take necessary permission for hosting any event for New Year celebrations in the Twin City of Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.

The move comes in the wake of a clash that was reported at a premier hotel in Bhubaneswar last year.

"We will not issue licence to any outsourcing agencies or any third party. Rather necessary permissions will be issued only in the name of owner of concerned hotels this year," said Khurania.

Khurania further said that usually excise department issues licence for serving liquor. While adequate steps will be taken to put a check on the incidents of rash driving under the influence of alcohol, violators will be taken to task.

The Police Commissioner further informed that elaborate measures have been undertaken by Commissionerate Police for maintaining law and order during Zero Night celebrations.

 Official sources said nearly 16 platoons of police force including 10 platoons in Bhubaneswar and 6 platoons in Cuttack will be deployed during New Year celebrations.

A heavy deployment of police will be made around hotels, clubs and other public places while special attention will be given for security of tourists at Nandankanan, Dhauli and other heritage sites in the Twin City.