On Thursday, Shivamogga district police convened meetings with proprietors of homestays, hotels, lodges, and resorts to discuss regulations for hosting New Year festivities.

Superintendent of Police (SP) G.K. Mithun Kumar emphasized the necessity of obtaining prior approval from local authorities before planning any celebrations. Event organizers were urged to limit attendance based on venue capacity while ensuring all safety and security protocols are adhered to.

Businesses licensed to serve alcohol must comply with the Excise Department’s regulations. To prevent drunk driving incidents, SP Kumar advised organizers to arrange transportation or accommodation for guests unable to drive home safely. All outdoor celebrations are to conclude by 1 a.m. sharp.

For events expecting over 200 attendees, CCTV surveillance is mandatory. Additionally, organizers must record participant details to enhance security measures.

Senior officials, including Additional SPs Anil Kumar Bhoomareddy, A.G. Cariappa, and Babu Anjanappa, actively participated in the discussions, reinforcing the importance of adhering to these guidelines.

These measures aim to create a safe and enjoyable environment for New Year celebrations across Shivamogga.