On Valentine’s Day in Bengaluru, there will be a temporary ban on liquor sales from February 14 to 17, affecting some areas of the city. However, this ban isn’t specifically targeting Valentine’s Day celebrations.
The ban on liquor sales in parts of Bengaluru from February 14 to 17 is due to the enforcement of the model code of conduct (MCC) for an upcoming by-election. The ban was announced by the Deputy Commissioner under specific legal provisions, as a precautionary measure during this period.
Liquor Sales Banned In Bengaluru On February 14 But Ban Unrelated to Valentine’s Day
The election is set for February 16, with voting from 8 am to 4 pm and vote counting on February 20. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has mandated that the polling process must conclude by February 23. The liquor ban will be enforced in seven assembly constituencies of Bangalore City district during this period, except for areas under Police Commissionerate jurisdiction.
The liquor ban has impacted Valentine’s Day plans for many in the city, especially bars and pubs anticipating a surge in business. Industry representatives note that Valentine’s Day typically brings a significant increase in daily business, with estimates suggesting up to a 50% rise. The inability to serve alcohol during this period is expected to have a negative impact on their revenue.
“The ban has come as a disappointment to the industry and those who were planning to celebrate. The government will also lose revenue of close to Rs 120 crore owing to the two-day ban,” stated PC Rao, president of the Bruhat Bengaluru Hoteliers Association, told DH. Karunakar Hegde, Vice-President of the Federation of Wine Merchants Association, Karnataka, warned of significant losses. “Many pubs and restaurants that have a common area where food and drinks are served will have to completely shut down,” he said.
