Teams of the Belagavi police, headed by Commissioner of Police Prakash Nikam, raided over 40 hotels and restaurants that were selling alcoholic beverages in and around the city on Saturday (October 10, 2026) night.
Teams led by Mr. Nikam, Deputy Commissioner Narayan Baramani and Assistant Commissioner Santosh Satyanayak visited over 40 clubs, pubs, prestigious hotels and dhabas. They inspected facilities, issued warnings and even closed some establishments that were operating in violation of excise and other rules.
Officers conducted strict checks in every department and wing of the establishments. Some managers admitted to violations and said they would not be repeated. In some places, officers found minors consuming alcoholic beverages. The customers were warned, and managers were told not to allow minors in future.
The police closed some clubs and pubs operating in violation of licensing regulations, fixed hours and safety standards.
In a few dhabas, officers found the use of high-decibel loudspeakers and disc jockey music systems. Apart from violating sound pollution norms, these were also causing inconvenience to neighbours. The systems were stopped, owners were asked not to restart them, and cases were filed against them.
Mr. Nikam told reporters in Belagavi on Sunday (October 11, 2026) that strict warnings had been issued to all establishments. “Maintaining public peace, law and order and safety in the city is our first priority. No one is bigger than the law, and everyone has to follow the rules, regulations and concerned court orders. There are no concessions or exemptions for any establishments that violate licence conditions, allow access to minors and operate beyond the prescribed time.”
“After the completion of the investigation, our officers will file cases against the accused as per various laws,” he said.
Published – October 11, 2026 04:51 pm IST
