Dehradun: In a bold move to enforce law and order, District Magistrate Savin Bansal has invoked special powers under Section 59 of the Excise Manual to standardize the operating hours of all bars, pubs, and restaurants in the district. This includes revoking the 24-hour operation license of the bar at Hyatt Regency, Mussoorie Road, which had been granted permission for additional hours in August 2024. Effective immediately, all bars in Dehradun will now operate only until 11 PM, even on weekends, ending the long-standing practice of allowing bars to remain open an hour longer on weekends.
The District Magistrate has emphasized that rules will now be uniformly applied, and strict action will be taken against violators. This decision comes in light of increasing accidents caused by alcohol consumption late at night, and as part of efforts to maintain public order in the district.
This is the first time in the state and district that Section 59 has been used to revoke the decades-old tradition of allowing bars to operate for an extra hour on weekends. The DM has clarified that any violations of the new operating hours will result in strict administrative and legal action.
In August 2024, Hyatt Regency’s bar had been granted permission by the then District Magistrate for 24-hour operation. However, following a review, Excise Commissioner Hari Chandra Semwal issued an order canceling this extended license, reverting the bar to the standard operational hours of 12 hours a day.
DM Bansal reiterated that maintaining law and order is a priority and that no one will be spared for violating the rules. The administration and police have been directed to conduct rigorous checks and ensure compliance. He stated, “The rules are the same for everyone, and no exemptions will be allowed. Legal action will be taken against any breaches.”
The district administration has instructed all hotel and bar operators to adhere strictly to the revised schedule. Excise officials have also been tasked with ensuring smooth enforcement of these directives across Dehradun. The revocation order highlights the department’s intent to maintain discipline and accountability in bar operations across the state.
