Udupi: Udupi district police have registered six separate cases against pubs and bars in Manipal after a late-night enforcement drive found several patrons below the legally permitted age allegedly consuming alcohol inside the establishments, including a 17-year-old minor.
The surprise inspections were carried out on the directions of the Superintendent of Police, Udupi, following reports that certain pubs and bars within the Manipal Police Station limits were allowing students to smoke hookah and serving alcohol to persons below 21 years of age, in violation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), the Karnataka Excise Licence Conditions, and the Karnataka Excise Act.
Simultaneous raids at six establishments
The operation was led by Manipal Police Inspector Mahesh Prasad with six special teams comprising more than 50 police personnel.
The teams included officers from the Manipal, Malpe, Hiriyadka and Kota police stations, along with personnel from the Udupi Women Police Station.
Simultaneous inspections were conducted at Ecstasy 7th Heaven Pub, Sai Sagar Bar & Restaurant (Noch on Top Resto Bar), Down The Road Bar & Restaurant, Dexter Bar & Restaurant, Dee Tee Bar & Restaurant, and Janani Bar & Restaurant (Edge Bar & Restaurant).
Over 80 underage patrons found
During the inspections, police found 64 young men and 23 young women, all below the age of 21, allegedly consuming alcohol inside the establishments.
A 17-year-old minor was also found inside one of the pubs during the raid.
Police conducted spot mahazars at all six locations and forwarded the reports to the Manipal Police Station for further legal action.
Cases registered against owners and managers
Based on the findings, police registered cases against the owners and managers of all six establishments.
Investigators are examining alleged violations of COTPA, the Karnataka Excise Act and the licence conditions governing the operation of pubs and bars.
Further investigation is under way.
Licence suspension under consideration
Police said they are also initiating proceedings to recommend the suspension of the licences of the six establishments.
A proposal will be sent to the Deputy Commissioner of Udupi for appropriate action, alleging that the pubs and bars permitted minors and persons below the legal drinking age to enter the premises and consume alcohol.
Officials said such violations could invite stringent administrative action in addition to criminal proceedings.
More inspections planned
The Udupi district police have warned that similar surprise inspections will continue across the district in the coming days.
Authorities said strict action would be taken against any pub or bar found permitting underage persons to enter the premises, consume alcohol or smoke hookah in violation of the law.
Police urged owners and managers of licensed establishments to strictly comply with all excise and tobacco control regulations to avoid legal action.