Punjab and Haryana HC seeks strict enforcement of 3 am deadline for bars, pubs in Panchkula

Through his counsel, petitioner Ashok Bhandari, a resident of Sector 5, submitted that clubs and bars in Panchkula were continuing operations until 4.30 am or even later, creating serious public nuisance. He referred to para 13 of his petition, stating that elderly residents and morning walkers from his locality were being disturbed by unruly crowds in an inebriated state, loitering near public parks and roads in Sector 5 and other parts of the city.

“These establishments routinely function beyond the prescribed time, causing not only noise but also road safety concerns due to negligent driving by drunk patrons exiting the premises at dawn,” Bhandari contended.

He clarified that he was not challenging the validity of the excise policy, which permits the sale of liquor in bars and pubs till 3 am after payment of a statutory fee. His grievance, he said, was limited to the “continued and unchecked violation of this 3 am cap” by several establishments. He also flagged the absence of penal consequences in the policy for those violating this timeline.

In response, the additional advocate general for Haryana submitted that the police were aware of such complaints and had already initiated action in recent months. He informed the court that:

• Two First Information Reports had been registered against establishments for violation of excise norms.

• 153 people found indulging in public nuisance outside such premises had been booked over the past two months.

• The licence of one bar had been recommended for cancellation.

He further stated, “We have instructed the assistant commissioner of police and the area SHO [station house officer] to ensure that no bar, club, or pub is allowed to operate beyond 3 am. Any violations will invite strict action.”

The state’s counsel also cited the excise policy clause, which allows extension of bar operation timings till 3 am on payment of additional fees. He clarified that out of nine clubs in Panchkula, three had permission to operate till 2 am and six till 3 am. However, none could be allowed to function beyond that under any circumstances.

Taking note of the submissions, the high court recorded the assurance from the state and disposed of the PIL, while granting the petitioner liberty to approach the court again in case of any fresh violation.

“We are assured that the statutory timeline prescribed under Clause 9.8.8 of the Excise Policy shall be strictly adhered to by the state and its functionaries. If any further breach occurs, the petitioner shall be free to seek appropriate legal remedy,” the bench said.