Udupi: Ahead of New Year 2026 celebrations, the district police on Tuesday issued strict guidelines to hotels, lodges, homestays and resorts, directing them to stop the use of loudspeakers by 10 pm in compliance with Supreme Court orders and to adhere to a series of safety and legal norms to ensure peaceful festivities.
Meeting with hospitality stakeholders
A meeting of hotel, lodge, homestay and resort owners was held at the Town Hall on December 24 to discuss celebration timings, security arrangements and legal responsibilities to be followed during New Year programmes. The meeting was conducted under the guidance of Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar, IPS.
Assistant Superintendent of Police Dr Harsha Priyamvada, IPS, briefed the stakeholders in detail about precautionary measures, statutory requirements and restrictions that must be strictly observed during celebrations. Police officials stressed that these measures were necessary to maintain public order, protect residents from disturbance and ensure the safety of guests.
Manipal Police Inspector Mahesh Prasad and Police Sub-Inspector Harish from the Central Town police station were also present and addressed the gathering, clarifying operational aspects and enforcement procedures.
Loudspeaker use restricted to 10 pm
Police officials reiterated that, as per Supreme Court directions, the use of loudspeakers must be stopped by 10 pm without exception. All New Year programmes, including music and entertainment events, must conclude within the prescribed time.
Organisers were cautioned against playing loud music beyond permitted limits or engaging in fire-related activities that could pose a risk or cause inconvenience to neighbouring residents. The police warned that violations would invite strict legal action, including registration of cases against organisers and property owners.
Safety of guests a top priority
The police emphasised that owners of hotels, homestays and resorts bear direct responsibility for the safety and security of their guests, including foreign tourists. It was made mandatory to obtain prior permission from the jurisdictional police station before taking guests to isolated, outer or forest areas.
Officials warned that if any untoward incident occurs in such locations without prior approval, the owners and organisers concerned would be held legally accountable. The instructions were issued in view of past incidents and to prevent risks during late-night celebrations.
Parking, CCTV and guest monitoring
Clear instructions were issued to ensure that guest vehicles are parked strictly within the premises of hotels, lodges, homestays or resorts, without causing obstruction or inconvenience to the public.
All homestays were directed to install CCTV cameras covering the outer premises and entry points. The footage must be preserved for a minimum period of three months and produced before authorities whenever required. Police officials said CCTV coverage is essential for deterrence as well as post-incident investigation.
Owners were also instructed to strictly prohibit any illegal or immoral activities within their premises. Regular monitoring of guest movement and activities was advised, particularly during late hours.
Mandatory records for guests and foreigners
With regard to foreign nationals, owners were instructed to submit “C Form” details to the Foreigners’ Division at the office of the District Superintendent of Police. In addition, the jurisdictional police station must be informed about the stay of foreign guests.
Maintaining a mandatory guest register was made compulsory for all establishments. The register must contain complete details such as the guest’s name, address, mobile number, Aadhaar identification or passport details, and vehicle registration number. Police officials said failure to maintain proper records would attract legal consequences.
Owners were also advised to immediately inform the police if foreign nationals arrive for work, extended stays or any purpose beyond tourism.
Alcohol, narcotics and content restrictions
The police made it clear that permission must be obtained for the use of loudspeakers and for organising any public programmes. Any programme or performance that insults or targets any caste, religion or community is strictly prohibited.
Special instructions were issued to prevent disturbances arising out of alcohol consumption. Serving alcohol requires mandatory permission from the Excise Department, and organisers must ensure compliance with all licensing conditions.
The use, possession or distribution of narcotic substances such as ganja or opium is strictly banned. Police warned that zero tolerance would be shown towards drug-related offences during New Year celebrations.
Responsibility fixed on organisers
Police officials urged owners and organisers to conclude all programmes within the stipulated time and to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and order. They stressed that organisers would be held responsible for any untoward incidents occurring during New Year celebrations on their premises.
Preventive measures, crowd management and timely communication with the police were advised to avoid emergencies. The police also appealed to stakeholders to view the guidelines as collective responsibility rather than mere regulatory compliance.
Emphasis on peaceful celebrations
The district police said the objective of the guidelines is not to discourage celebrations but to ensure they are conducted in a safe, lawful and respectful manner. With an influx of tourists and revellers during the New Year period, adherence to rules is essential to protect both guests and local residents.
Conclusion: The detailed guidelines issued by the police underline the administration’s intent to ensure peaceful New Year 2026 celebrations through strict enforcement of law and shared responsibility. By complying with prescribed norms on noise control, safety, documentation and conduct, hotels, homestays and resorts can help create a secure and enjoyable festive environment for all.