Hotels challenge 1.30 AM deadline on new year's eve in Bombay High Court

MUMBAI: The Indian Hotels and Restaurant Association (AHAR) today approached the Bombay High Court challenging the city police's 1.30 AM deadline for eateries and restaurants on New Year's eve.

After Mumbai Police commissioner issued the directive, the police commissioners of Thane and Navi Mumbai followed suit citing concerns of 'serious crimes' and 'law and order disruptions'.

Aggrieved by the directive, AHAR petitioned the High Court seeking a direction to police to recall its deadline.

According to the petition, the Maharashtra Home department and Excise department had in circulars dated December 19 and December 24, respectively, granted permission to hotels and restaurants to remain open till 5 AM. The circular, however, said each hotel owner should get permission from the police commissioner.

"But the commissioner issued a blanket order saying no eatery, hotel or restaurant should be opened beyond 1.30 AM. Such a deadline is not imposed on five-star hotels and pubs.

"They are allowed to remain open till 3 in the morning. Why this discrimination? This is a very elitist outlook. Are only the rich allowed to party and celebrate?" petitioner's advocate Veena Thadani questioned.

The petition also mentioned that the hotels and restaurants have already spent a huge amount, arranged parties and sold tickets.

The matter was mentioned before the vacation bench of the High Court which has posted it for hearing tomorrow.