Mumbai: Police Raids Bar in Chembur, Operator and Manager Held for License Violations

Mumbai Police carried out a late-night raid at Hotel Rasna Punjab Bar & Restaurant situated on RC Road in Chembur, taking action against alleged violations of licensing norms, reported the Free Press Journal. A case was registered against the establishment’s operator, Kishore Sanjiva Shetty, 51, and manager, Ravindra Ramasare Rai, 45, for failing to adhere to conditions mandated under their bar and restaurant license. Authorities stated that the duo had breached government regulations linked to operational permissions. The raid was conducted after officials gathered credible inputs suggesting non-compliance, prompting immediate enforcement action to prevent further violations and ensure that rules governing such establishments were strictly followed.

As per the details mentioned in the FIR, the police received specific information indicating that the hotel located within Hira Compound on RC Road was functioning in violation of its permitted guidelines, the report added. Acting swiftly, a team from the Chembur police station, accompanied by officers from Crime Branch Unit 6, conducted a surprise inspection on the night of March 28. During the operation, officials discovered that music was being played by a DJ using electronic devices such as a mobile phone and a laptop. The presence of unauthorized entertainment activities raised suspicion, leading officers to carry out a thorough inspection of the premises and those present.

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During the raid, eight female performers were found either on stage or backstage; however, none of them possessed valid identification documents or official permission to perform. When questioned, the women admitted they did not hold any legal authorization for their performances at the venue. Additionally, around ten customers were present at the time, being attended by two waiters. Police detained both the operator and the manager for further questioning. Upon verification, it was revealed that the licensed ownership of the premises belonged to Sharad Balu Hegde, adding another layer to the ongoing investigation into operational responsibilities.

Further inquiry revealed multiple breaches of licensing conditions. Although the establishment had approval to host orchestra performances, it was instead operating a DJ setup. The stage dimensions were also found to be below the mandated size, measuring only 6x10 feet instead of the required 10x12 feet. Moreover, the venue lacked separate entry and exit pathways for patrons, violating safety norms. Authorities seized relevant documents and initiated legal proceedings. The female performers were released to protect their dignity, while customers were allowed to leave after being informed. A case has been registered under Sections 223 and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Act, and further investigation is underway.