Mumbai takes on moral cops over bar raids

On February 24, 1,700 people were arrested from 52 beer bars and dance bars across the city and suburbs.

Starting April 1, the state government will begin enforcing its rule on the minimum age for drinking — 21 years. ‘‘The raids have nothing to do with the coming elections,’’ Roy said.

But the government’s eagerness to play Big Brother has citizens worried. Some call it a desperate measure to woo the middle-class.

Theatre personality Quasar Thakore-Padamsee says the cultural and moral policing is so ‘‘un-Bombay-like’’, a feeling plaguing many. Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt calls the moral policing a ‘‘smokescreen for those in power’’. ‘‘But with serious crimes to be tackled in the city, it’s odd that the police are focussing on whether a youngster is boozing or partying at a disco,’’ said lawyer Shiraz Rustomzee.

JCP (Law and Order) Javed Ahmed said Saturday’s raids followed complaints. However, Beer Bars Association president Manjeet Singh says: ‘‘This is a method of extortion by the Mumbai Police. We are permit holders.’’ He complains many owners have been charged under Section 294 of the IPC though there is no occurrence of indecent exposure.

‘‘Let them make whatever allegations they want to. We have no interest in shutting down their businesses, but they should stop all illegal activities,’’ said Roy.

But Singh has more allegations. ‘‘Why are the police not raiding the roadside Chinese food stalls? They don’t even have a civic permit.’’ The association has called an urgent meeting on March 31, to plan a further course of action and protest.