Bengaluru imposes liquor ban to ensure peaceful Eid-e-Milad procession
Bengaluru: In anticipation of the Eid-e-Milad celebrations on September 5, the Bengaluru Police have issued a complete ban on the sale of liquor in key areas to maintain law and order. Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh stated that the decision aims to prevent untoward incidents and ensure the safety of the large crowds expected to participate in the celebrations.
The ban will remain in effect from 6 a.m. on September 5 to 6 a.m. on September 6, covering all bars, pubs, restaurants, wine shops, and MSIL outlets, except for establishments with CL-4 and CL-6A licenses. The affected areas include jurisdictions under Eastern Division police stations—Hennur, R.M. Nagar, Govindpura, K.G. Halli, D.G. Halli, Pulakeshinagar, Bharathinagar, Commercial Street, and Shivajinagar—and Northern Division police stations—J.C. Nagar and R.T. Nagar.
Procession details and expected crowd
The Eid-e-Milad procession will commence from the limits of Kothanur and Sampigehalli police stations in the North-East division. It will proceed through major roads including Thanisandra Main Road, Nagawara Main Road, Arabic College Main Road, Shyampur Main Road, Tannery Road, Haines Road, H.K.P Road, Thammayya Road, Jayamahal Road, and Nandidurga Road. Authorities anticipate 50,000 to 60,000 participants, and police have made arrangements to manage traffic and maintain public order throughout the day.
Commissioner Singh explained that large processions can attract miscreants who might consume alcohol and create disturbances. “The ban is necessary to ensure the procession and related programmes proceed peacefully and to prevent any untoward incidents,” he said.
Legal basis for the ban
The prohibitory order was issued under Sub-sections (1) and (3) of Section 163 of the Indian Civil Security Code, empowering the Commissioner to restrict the sale of liquor in specified areas for maintaining public peace. All liquor-selling outlets, including bars and wine shops, must remain closed during the period of the ban. Restaurants and hotels can continue to serve food but are not permitted to sell alcoholic beverages.
Steps for public safety
In addition to the liquor ban, Bengaluru Police have coordinated with local authorities to ensure crowd management, traffic diversion, and emergency response services are in place. Alternative routes have been suggested for commuters, and temporary barricades will be set up along key stretches of the procession route. Authorities have also urged residents and shopkeepers in the area to cooperate with law enforcement personnel and adhere to safety guidelines.
Ensuring a safe celebration
Eid-e-Milad, which marks the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad, is observed with processions, prayers, and community gatherings. With thousands expected to participate, authorities are taking proactive steps to prevent accidents and maintain order. The liquor ban is part of a wider strategy to reduce the risk of violence or public disturbance during religious celebrations in densely populated urban areas.
By imposing the ban and closely monitoring the procession, Bengaluru Police aim to ensure that the celebrations remain peaceful, safe, and orderly for all participants. Residents and visitors are advised to plan their travel accordingly, follow police directions, and avoid restricted areas during the ban period.