Pune: Maharashtra CM instructs to run bulldozers on pubs

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has identified more than 90 clubs operating illegally, with action expected as per Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s orders. This move follows the sealing of L3 Club on FC Road after videos surfaced showing drug consumption and late-night parties. Despite an early June complaint to the Pune District Collector, no immediate action was taken.

Pune District Collector Suhas Diwase previously cancelled licenses for six rooftop clubs, responding to a complaint from the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) of Zone 4, Pune Police. Former District Collector Rajesh Deshmukh conducted two hearings based on numerous complaints and FIRs against clubs in Kalyani Nagar and Koregaon Park.

Collector Diwase emphasized that these clubs should not reopen soon. The Excise Department has taken interim measures, with club owners required to comply with regulations. Diwase has directed the PMC to compile a list of all illegal clubs for the Excise Department’s review, with further actions pending scrutiny.

The Excise Department has reportedly sealed over 130 clubs in Pune, although there is inconsistency in the data provided by various officials. Differing counts from the Excise Minister, the District Collector, and Excise Department officials have led to confusion over the exact number of sealed clubs.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has instructed officials to use bulldozers to dismantle illegal constructions linked to pubs and narcotic activities. A statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) confirmed Shinde’s directive to the police to take renewed action against drug peddlers and use bulldozers against illegal structures associated with narcotic substances.

The crackdown on Pune’s nightlife follows the emergence of a video allegedly from Liquid Leisure Lounge or L3 on Fergusson College Road, showing youths with a substance resembling drugs. In connection with this case, an inspector, an assistant inspector, and two beat marshals from the Shivajinagar police station, who were on night duty, have been suspended.