Pubs In Bengaluru To Remain Open Till 1 AM? Minister Hints at Late-Night Extension

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has assured that pubs in Bengaluru may soon be allowed to operate until 1 AM, highlighting the city's international reputation and the need for a vibrant nightlife. Speaking during the Assembly session, he emphasized that Bengaluru should remain active at night and assured that efforts would be made to extend pub operating hours.

The discussion on pub timings was raised by BJP MLA HS Gopinath, prompting a response from Excise Minister RB Timmapur. While Timmapur explained that current regulations permit pubs to operate from 10 AM to 11:30 PM, with those attached to restaurants allowed to stay open until 1 AM, Shivakumar intervened, suggesting that the extended timing should apply to all pubs in the city.

Timmapur also noted that strict action is being taken against establishments violating the current operational limits. However, DK Shivakumar countered, stating that enforcement should not turn into harassment. "Bengaluru is a globally recognized city, and many professionals work late hours. The matter of extending pub timings will be discussed, and appropriate measures will be taken," he assured.

Objections Over Forced Tax Collection in BBMP Limits

Meanwhile, BJP MLA CK Ramamurthy raised concerns in the Assembly regarding alleged coercive tax collection by some IAS officers in the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) jurisdiction. He claimed that property tax collection had surged significantly, with the corporation collecting ₹3,000 crore during the Congress tenure and ₹4,556 crore during the BJP rule. This year, the target has reportedly been raised to ₹6,000 crore.

Ramamurthy accused officials of forcibly collecting taxes at an interest rate of 9%, locking up 10,000 properties, and pasting notices to pressure property owners. He alleged that daily reports were being filed by officials, forcing tax collectors to meet steep revenue targets.

The issue of both pub timings and tax collection remains under discussion, with further deliberations expected in the coming days.