Cops raid 25 pubs, restaurants in Bengaluru after complaints of multiple violations

Bengaluru: The Bengaluru police on Thursday raided over 25 pubs and restaurants across the city for violating excise laws, COTPA regulations, and indulging in obscene behaviour.

Violations included poor floor etiquette, operating beyond permitted hours, high decibel levels, and serving alcohol to underage customers.

Checks were held in the high streets of the Central Business District (CBD), SJP Road, Ashok Nagar, Upparpet, Cottonpet, Kalasipalya, Cubbon Park, and other areas. The operation involved 15 police teams led by S Girish and Hakay Akshay Machhindra, Deputy Commissioners of Police (West and Central).

A senior officer told DH that women-related violations were among the most serious concerns.

"They have employed many women in these restaurants and bars, but they have not implemented the necessary measures that need to be taken at the establishments when women are employed," the officer said.

He added that several places flouted floor etiquette by installing ramps in central walkways, mirroring fashion show setups, without permits.

The police also found money-showering arrangements and token gift facilities at several pubs. The officer remarked that such practices, though beyond legal violations, are morally and ethically wrong.

In a release, the Bengaluru police said: "During the raid, it was found that 19 bars and restaurants were violating regulations by employing female workers dressed provocatively standing near customers' tables."

Further violations included the absence of designated smoking zones beyond allowed hours and unhygienic kitchen conditions. The police said they have written to the health and excise departments to inspect such establishments.

The raids followed several complaints lodged over the past 10 days.

"It appears these establishments capitalised on the opportunity while the Police Department was dealing with the aftermath of the Chinnaswamy stadium stampede. They may have tried to make quick money by violating rules, assuming the police won’t react at such a time," the officer said.

Sources said that police deployed decoys for two days to monitor activities before launching the raids.