Karnataka Government May Extend Nightlife in 5-star Hotels

BENGALURU: The state government is contemplating an extension of nightlife, at least in 5-star hotels, considering the demand from IT, BT and tourism sectors.

“Bengaluru is an international city, it is a global IT, BT hub. It attracts huge international business travellers and tourists. Then there are people who work till late in the night and find no place to go for food or beverages. We have received suggestions from all these segments for an extension of nightlife at least in 5-star hotels,” Home Minister K J George said here on Tuesday.

At present, bars and restaurants in the city have been allowed to extend service till 1 am on Friday and Saturday.

The present request is for 24X7 service, which means ensuring food and beverages service round-the-clock all seven days of the week.

The Home Department is examining the pros and cons of implementing such a demand. “However, no decision has been taken yet as the issue needs to be discussed with IT, Tourism and Excise departments too,” George said.

The home minister on Tuesday fulfilled one of the longest pending demands of Karnataka State Reserve Police personnel regarding promotions by announcing a system of automatic promotion on completion of 18 years of service for constables.  George ruled out going back on his decision to transfer circle inspectors and ACPs who have served five or more continuous years in executive posts in Bengaluru city. “There is no question of yielding to pressure to relax this order. The order will be effective for other commissionerates also,” he said.