Locals speak up against bars, shops in Indiranagar

Intensifying the protest against the commercialisation of Indiranagar, local residents formed a human chain on the footpaths of the eastern Bengaluru locality on Saturday evening. They decried the “complete failure” of urban and economic governance.

The protest was organised by resident welfare associations (RWAs) such as HAL 2nd Stage Civic Amenities and Cultural Association, Indiranagar 1st Stage League, 2nd Stage League, Defence Colony, HAL 2nd Stage and 3rd Stage RWA.

Bangalore Central MP, P C Mohan, Rajya Sabha member Rajeev Chandrasekhar and CV Raman Nagar legislator S Raghu joined the residents.

The protesters said the violation of zoning regulations had turned Indiranagar from a quiet, peaceful neighbourhood into a nuisance hub. Late-night drunken revelry, footpath parking, rising crimes and traffic jams have become the order of the day. Some complained their own homes being blocked by valet parking provided by commercial establishments.

Chaitra, a resident, said: “A pub right behind my home plays music far into the night. Partying goes on the streets until 3 am, with screaming and howling. Next day, the streets are littered with broken alcohol bottles. We complained to the authorities concerned but no action was taken.”

Another resident slammed the authorities for the “complete failure” of urban and economic governance. “Businesses here are violating all rules. We want an answer from both the state government and the BBMP.”

A third resident said party-goers keep honking and screaming on the streets after pubs shut down.

Protesters accused the civic authorities of turning a blind eye to the problem despite a high court ruling that bans commercial activities in residential areas.

Commenting on the inaction of the authorities, another resident said most of the commercial building in Indiranagar were owned by politicians, senior bureaucrats and other influential people.