Overview
- The state approved late closing on Wednesday, allowing excise-licensed outlets to operate until 5 a.m. on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve.
- Authorities clarified the relaxation is limited to the three festive nights and remains subject to existing excise rules and local regulations.
- HRAWI submitted a same-day representation to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis seeking the extension and pledged strict compliance with safety and security requirements.
- The measure follows an October 1 circular that enabled 24/7 operations for hotels and restaurants but excluded liquor-licensed establishments.
- An excise order outlines extended hours by licence type and area and empowers district collectors to modify timings for law and order, with enforcement teams deployed, including in Pune.