Bengaluru Police have initiated a probe after videos showing a late-night commotion at a city pub owned by actor Shilpa Shetty went viral on social media, officials confirmed on Friday.

The incident reportedly took place at Bastian, a popular pub located on St Mark’s Road, in the early hours of December 11.

CCTV footage triggers police action

The CCTV clips circulating online show a group of patrons engaged in a heated verbal exchange around 1.30 am. While the footage captures raised voices and brief heckling, no physical assault is visible in the videos reviewed so far.

According to preliminary information, the argument allegedly began over a dispute related to settling the bill. Pub staff intervened quickly and managed to de-escalate the situation, preventing it from spiralling further.

Police said they took suo motu cognisance of the viral footage after it began drawing public attention.

Individuals summoned for questioning

Businessman Satya Naidu, a former Bigg Boss contestant and ex-husband of a television anchor, was among those seen in the footage. Responding to the allegations, Naidu denied any wrongdoing.

He stated that he had visited the pub only for dinner with friends and that the disagreement arose during the billing process. “There was no physical altercation,” he said, adding that the issue was being misrepresented online.

Confirming the probe, the Central Division Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) said those involved have been summoned for questioning. “We are examining the CCTV footage and recording statements. A case will be registered if any cognisable offence is established,” the officer said.

Pub ownership and background

Actor Shilpa Shetty partnered with restaurateur Ranjit Bindra, founder of the Bastian brand, in 2019. The Bengaluru outlet is part of the brand’s expansion beyond Mumbai and has been frequented by celebrities and socialites.

Police clarified that the investigation is focused on the incident involving patrons and not the ownership or operations of the establishment at this stage.

Ongoing scrutiny

Authorities said further action will depend on the outcome of the enquiry and corroboration of evidence. No FIR had been registered as of Friday evening.

The incident has once again highlighted concerns around late-night crowd management and public behaviour at high-end nightlife venues in Bengaluru.