Restaurants in Pune to File Writ Petitions Over Suspended Liquor Licenses
Reported By Sumit Singh
Pune, 23rd July 2024: In the aftermath of a tragic accident involving a Porsche, which resulted in the deaths of two IT professionals on May 19, the Pune District Collector has suspended the licenses of approximately 70 pubs. This suspension has severely impacted the hospitality industry over the past two months.
The incident, which saw the car driven by a drunk teenager, has led to stringent measures being enforced by the authorities. While some restaurants have managed to get their liquor licenses reinstated, a significant number remain closed. This ongoing situation has caused substantial financial strain on restaurant owners and staff, who are grappling with expenses such as rent and salaries.
In response, around 15-20 restaurants are filing writ petitions in the Bombay High Court on Wednesday, seeking directives for the Collector to issue orders on the revoked licenses. These petitions are being supported by the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) Pune Chapter and the United Hospitality Association.
Advocate Ajinkya Udane, Co-Chapter Head of NRAI Pune Chapter, stated, “The restaurant industry is facing immense financial difficulties due to the prolonged suspension of liquor licenses. We hope the court will expedite the resolution of this issue.”
The hospitality sector, already reeling from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, now faces additional challenges. Industry representatives emphasize the urgent need for a resolution to prevent further financial losses and ensure the livelihood of thousands of employees.
