Order on extended nightlife under review

Home Minister K J George said on Tuesday that the order extending nightlife in Bangalore till 1 am was under review. The extension could be continued or withdrawn.

He was speaking to reporters after an interaction session with members of the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

George said, “The order for extension of nightlife for three months was as per specific orders for the said period. The police department, in a few days, will review the issue after gauging the law and order situation and response of the people. Inputs will be taken from owners of restaurants and pubs. Only after a thorough review, the decision will be made”.

He said that the chief minister will take a final call. George said that he had his personal opinion on the extended hours as well, but would not want to make it public as it may lead to influencing the decision.

On the 70,000 cases pending for want of prosecution across the State and the high acquittal rate, George said that they were bound by the Supreme Court order.

Within a year, a prosecution board will be constituted, wherein cases pending for want of prosecution will be dealt with on a priority basis.

He said that already a process to prioritise such cases, especially those concerning crimes against women.

George said that already a Police Complaints Authority is in place looking into complaints against police officials. Regarding the cases against agents in the COMED-K scam, he said that at this stage nothing could be said. Some big names are cropping up in the investigation.

He said that the shortage of police personnel is being addressed by recruiting 8,500 constables.

But it will take a year to be a part of the force as they have to undergo training. Overall, there are about 22,000 vacancies at various levels, the minister said.