Pune: Mixed response from bars, permit rooms to statewide tax protest

The one-day bandh was part of a coordinated effort across the state’s hospitality industry to highlight the strain caused by a series of tax increases. These include a doubling of value added tax (VAT) on liquor from 5% to 10%, a 60% rise in excise duty, and a 15% hike in annual licence renewal fees for FY 2025–26. Industry bodies said that these hikes come at a time when many businesses are still recovering from the long-term impact of the pandemic and rising inflation, threatening the viability of thousands of establishments.

PRAHA, which represents over 4,200 establishments in Pune and is part of a wider state-level network, had urged complete participation from bars, permit rooms, and restaurants across the city.

While most establishments adhered to the call for a closure, FC Road Social and BarBerry reopened by early evening. “We remained shut until 6 PM in solidarity with the protest but reopened as per instructions from our head office in Mumbai,” said a manager at FC Road Social, who requested anonymity. A manager at BarBerry echoed the statement, adding, “We were told to participate partially — to show support, but also to ensure minimal disruption to evening business.”

Meanwhile, High Spirits Café and Swig Koregaon Park remained open throughout the day. “We did attend the meetings with PRAHA and are aware of the collective protest,” said a manager at Swig. “However, we were not formally directed to close by our parent company. The decision was left to individual outlets.”

PRAHA president Ganesh Shetty expressed concern over the mixed response and its potential impact on the movement’s credibility. “We held several meetings with their parent associations. They gave us their word,” he said. “Remaining open — whether partially or fully — sends a confusing message to the government. At a time when our very survival is at stake, it’s essential we act in coordination.”

He added that further discussions and meetings will be initiated with the parent organisations of these establishments. “We need clearer commitments and stronger alignment going forward,” Shetty said. “This is not just a symbolic protest. It’s a collective appeal for policy correction, and every participant matters,” he added.