Bengaluru police launched a series of late-night raids on Thursday across 26 pubs, bars, and restaurants, targeting multiple violations ranging from obscene behaviour to excise breaches. Of the total, 19 establishments were raided in the West Division, and six in the Central Division.
Acting on a tip-off, senior officers deployed special task teams to conduct inspections in areas falling under Upparpet, Cottonpet, Kalasipalya, Cubbon Park, and Ashoknagar police jurisdictions.
A press statement revealed that several businesses were operating beyond licensed hours, while others faced charges related to excise violations, lack of hygiene, and inappropriate conduct by female staff, who were reportedly made to wear provocative attire and behave indecently with patrons.
Additional infractions included:
- No female security staff on-site
- Poor sanitation in kitchens
- No designated smoking zones
- Unregulated customer smoking, leading to on-the-spot COTPA fines
Authorities confirmed that reports have been filed at the respective police stations, and legal proceedings are underway against the venue owners. Police emphasized that the infractions also violated health and excise department guidelines, not just public order.
Officials warned that repeat offenders will face license cancellations and stricter penalties in the future, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring lawful nightlife operations in the city.