Crackdown on Bengaluru Nightlife: 25 Pubs Raided for Legal, Moral Breaches

In a sweeping late-night operation on Thursday, Bengaluru police conducted surprise inspections at over 25 pubs and eateries throughout the city for breaching excise rules, flouting COTPA guidelines, and engaging in inappropriate conduct.

The raids, carried out in areas like the Central Business District (CBD), SJP Road, Ashok Nagar, Upparpet, Cottonpet, Kalasipalya, and Cubbon Park, revealed numerous irregularities. Infractions ranged from extended operating hours and excessive noise levels to serving alcohol to minors. Several venues were also found with inadequate floor plans, violating public safety norms.

The city’s west and central zones were covered by 15 dedicated police squads, under the leadership of Deputy Commissioners S Girish and Hakay Akshay Machhindra.

A senior official highlighted major concerns involving female staff. “Many establishments hired women without ensuring the necessary safeguards mandated for female employment,” he noted. Furthermore, unauthorized walkways designed like fashion ramps were set up without prior approval.

Authorities discovered staged money showers, gift token counters, and provocatively dressed female employees positioned near patrons—activities deemed both unlawful and morally questionable.

Some venues also lacked proper smoking areas and were found operating beyond their licensed hours. Others had unsanitary kitchens, prompting the police to alert the health and excise departments for further action.

Police sources revealed that the crackdown followed a series of public complaints. Intelligence teams had even planted undercover officers to monitor activities before the raids were executed.