Bengaluru's Nightlife Needs: 24/7 Hotel Operations Sought Amid Ongoing Delays

Hoteliers in Bengaluru are escalating their efforts to secure permission from the Home Department to operate their businesses 24/7. Frustrated by the lack of progress, the Bruhat Bengaluru Hoteliers' Association (BBHA) is now considering legal action to obtain the necessary approvals.

On September 27, the Karnataka government announced that commercial establishments and shops employing ten or more people would be permitted to operate around the clock. However, the Bengaluru Police Department has yet to grant consent for this policy, leaving hoteliers in limbo.

"The State Government has already given us the green light to run operations 24/7. Despite this, the Police Department remains hesitant to provide us the required permission. We urge the Home Minister to address our request; otherwise, we may be forced to seek legal recourse," stated P. C. Rao, president of the BBHA.

In a formal letter to Home Minister G. Parameshwara on October 28, the association highlighted the potential benefits of round-the-clock operations, noting that hotels would not only offer food but also provide essential services like drinking water and toilet facilities. "By keeping our establishments open 24/7, we can greatly benefit the public. Hence, we request you to instruct the Police Department to allow the hotel industry to function continuously," the letter emphasized.

Responding to the situation, Bengaluru Police Commissioner B. Dayananda remarked, "I have not received any representation from them. The decision regarding this matter ultimately lies with the government, not the police department."

Price Increases Remain Uncertain

In addition to their push for extended hours, the BBHA has yet to decide on potential price hikes for food and beverages, despite rising costs for essential commodities like grains, pulses, and cooking oil.

"The cost of commercial LPG has risen, and we anticipate further increases in coffee and milk prices. We do not wish to pass this burden onto consumers just yet. However, if prices continue to escalate, we will convene to make a decision," Mr. Rao added.

While the BBHA typically revises the prices of food items, coffee, and tea annually in April, it has chosen not to do so this year in an effort to maintain business during these challenging times.