Amid rumours circulating on social media about an alleged 11 pm shutdown of hotels, restaurants and roadside food outlets in Nagpur, city police have clarified that no such blanket restriction has been imposed on businesses operating legally.
Speaking to Nagpur Today, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Deepak Agrawal said the ongoing police action is part of routine efforts to maintain law and order and curb criminal activities during late-night hours, and should not be interpreted as a ban on nightlife or legitimate commercial establishments.
Licensed Businesses Can Continue Operations
The DCP explained that hotels, restaurants and food establishments in Maharashtra function under different licensing categories, each carrying its own set of operating conditions and permitted timings. Businesses holding valid licences are free to operate within the limits specified in their permissions, with some categories authorised to remain open well beyond midnight.
He emphasised that the police are not targeting lawful businesses and that enforcement action is restricted to violations of existing laws and regulations.
Focus on Crime Prevention and Public Safety
According to police, the recent drive is aimed at tackling illegal activities and maintaining public order in areas where complaints or suspicious activities have been reported.
The crackdown primarily targets offences such as:
- Public consumption of alcohol and drunken behaviour
- Drug abuse and narcotics-related activities
- Unlawful gatherings
- Violent incidents and public nuisance
- Encroachments on roads and footpaths
- Suspicious late-night movements linked to criminal activity
Police teams have stepped up night patrols and surveillance across sensitive locations to prevent offences including theft, robbery, assault, crimes against women, gang-related incidents and drug trafficking.
Action Against Violators, Not Businesses
DCP Agrawal clarified that police intervention is limited to individuals or establishments found operating illegally, violating licence conditions or engaging in unlawful activities. All action, he said, is taken strictly in accordance with legal provisions.
Police Appeal Against Rumours
Nagpur Police have urged citizens not to rely on unverified messages or social media posts suggesting that businesses are being ordered to shut by 11 pm.
Residents have also been encouraged to report incidents involving illegal liquor consumption, narcotics use, suspicious gatherings or any activity that could disturb public peace and security. Reiterating the objective behind the late-night operations, the DCP said the initiative is intended to strengthen public safety and create a secure environment through coordinated efforts involving the Crime Branch, local police stations and other enforcement agencies.
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