Itanagar, May 11:
In view of the rising number of drunken driving cases, late-night altercations, and fatal road accidents in the Capital Region, the Capital Police has directed all bars, pubs, nightclubs, and resorts to strictly adhere to the prescribed closing timings under the existing Deputy Commissioner’s order issued in 2022.
A coordination meeting with owners and representatives of bars, pubs, nightclubs, and resorts operating in the Capital Region was held at the SDPO Office, Itanagar, prior to a press briefing on Sunday. The meeting and briefing were conducted by Itanagar SDPO Chera Saban under the direction of SP Capital Jummar Basar, under the supervision of DIGP Tumme Amo, and under the overall supervision of IGP (Law & Order) Chukhu Apa.
During the briefing, SDPO Chera Saban stated that the administration has decided to strictly enforce the existing order issued by the Deputy Commissioner, Capital Itanagar, which mandates all licensed bars and clubs to bring down shutters by 11:00 PM and completely cease operations by 12:00 AM.
The move comes amid growing concern over a surge in accidents, violent scuffles, and public disturbances allegedly linked to late-night drinking and drunken driving in the Capital Region.
Addressing the media, SDPO Saban said that most fatal road accidents in recent times have been reported during the early morning hours between 3:00 AM and 6:00 AM, with many cases involving intoxicated drivers.
He further noted that even minor road accidents often escalate into violent altercations when individuals involved are under the influence of alcohol.
Citing recent incidents, Saban mentioned that a person recently lost an eye during a drunken scuffle in the Chimpu area, while another individual lost his life following a collision near Abotani Colony junction.
“Directly or indirectly, many of these unfortunate incidents are consequences of late-night drinking and driving,” he stated.
During the meeting, owners and operators of bars and nightclubs were instructed to strictly comply with all regulations, including prominently displaying opening and closing timings, carrying out mandatory ID verification to prevent entry of persons below 21 years of age, and maintaining proper visitor registers.
Police officials also warned that surprise raids would be conducted at bars, clubs, and pubs found operating beyond the permitted timing of 12:00 AM. Any establishment violating the order would face strict penal action, including suspension of licenses under the Arunachal Pradesh Excise Rules, 1994.
The Capital Police reiterated that the enforcement drive is aimed at maintaining public safety and preventing further incidents related to drunken driving and late-night disturbances in the region.
