The Excise Department’s decision to exempt clubs from the closure order has come as a relief to many clubs which were stressed about the prospect of stopping the liquor service.
Clubs in Bengaluru had appealed for a stay on the liquor ban. Most clubs across the city were sending out text messages reassuring their members that the Federation of Clubs of Karnataka has taken up the issue with respective authorities. “We have vigorously pursued the (issue) and are hopeful of renewal of beverage licence.
This message is to keep you posted,” a message from one of the clubs near MG Road said.
There are 10 clubs in Bengaluru, including KSCA, Bowring Institute, Bangalore Golf Club, Century Club and Bangalore Club, and some of the clubs are part of the federation.
H S Srikanth, Secretary, Federation of Clubs of Karnataka, said that the clubs around Bengaluru and in Karnataka do not “sell” alcohol but just provide it to their members. “The CL-4 licence which the clubs have is not same as the other licences such as the CL-2 and CL-7 which are licences for retail shops and bars and restaurants. These are the licences that the Supreme Court order pertains to.
On behalf of all the clubs in Karnataka, the Federation of Clubs of Karnataka, met the additional chief secretary (Finance) and excise additional commissioner. We are relieved to hear the news but we are yet to get any official communication,” he said.
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