Mumbai: Despite stiff opposition from hoteliers and pub owners, Mumbai Police Commissioner Satyapal Singh has told NDTV that there will be no rethink on the police’s decision to implement the 1:30 am deadline on New Year’s eve.
The Mumbai Police’s diktat comes in spite of the fact that the Maharashtra government had issued a circular stating that hotels, eateries and commercial establishments can stay open till 5 am.
The Police Commissioner told NDTV that the decision was taken in the interest of women and Mumbaikars to ensure that there would be no harassment.
“The decision puts undue stress on the police force… Though there were government orders, the discretion was of the Mumbai Police… The decision is final, the Mumbai Police will not reconsider,” Mr Singh told NDTV.
Hoteliers have however moved the court challenging the Mumbai Police’s order.
Meanwhile, the hotels and pubs have found support from Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray.
“I read that Mumbai’s Police Commissioner and State Govt have said no New Year celebrations beyond 1:30 am. I seriously hope they are kidding,” he tweeted.
“What is with our govt?! Instead of increasing their efficiency, they want to bring us down!” he said in another tweet.
