Pune: Show Cause Notice Issued To Ballr Pub In Kalyani Nagar Over Bomb Blast Risk, Loud Music

Reported by Tikam Shekhawat & Varad Bhatkhande

Pune, 10th August 2024: Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar has issued a show-cause notice to the popular Ballr Pub in Kalyani Nagar, questioning why its discotheque license should not be revoked for repeated violations of various regulations and security lapses. The police have expressed serious concerns about the establishment’s potential to become a target for terrorist activities.

Ballr Pub has been identified as a frequent site for disturbances, particularly involving intoxicated patrons and loud music. The Yerwada Police Station has registered four cases against the pub for such disturbances. Due to these issues, the Senior Police Inspector in charge of Yerwada Police Station, along with the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 4), has recommended canceling the discotheque license held by Escapism Hospitality LLP, the operator of Ballr Pub.

In the show-cause notice dated 9th August, Commissioner Kumar stated, “Your discotheque establishment has repeatedly violated the rules and regulations, terms, and conditions set forth. Despite actions taken against you, there has been no change in your conduct. It appears that there is a blatant disregard for the law, and a deliberate disobedience of administrative instructions is evident. Additionally, there is a lack of adequate security measures at the venue. Given the large crowds that frequent your establishment, in the event of an emergency—such as a fire, stampede or gas leak—the absence of an effective security system could result in significant loss of life and property.”

The notice also highlighted the ongoing alert regarding potential terrorist activities, stating that “a disaster like a bomb blast cannot be ruled out, which could lead to a large-scale loss of life.”

Ballr Pub has been given 10 days to respond to the notice.