Bollywood actress and entrepreneur Shilpa Shetty has found herself in the midst of a legal issue concerning her high-end Bengaluru restaurant. A case has been registered against Bastion, a premium dining establishment she co-founded, for allegedly flouting rules by hosting late-night parties beyond the permitted operational hours.
Police Action Following Late-Night Inspection
The controversy stems from an official inspection carried out on December 11. Authorities visited the upscale restaurant located on St Marks Road in Bengaluru and reportedly found it in clear violation of local regulations governing closing times. The establishment was allegedly operating and entertaining guests well past the legally stipulated deadline.
Confirming the development, a senior police officer stated that legal proceedings have been initiated. "We have registered a case under relevant sections of the Karnataka Police Act at Cubbon Park police station against the manager and staff of the establishment for violating the rules," the officer told PTI. The case targets the operational team present during the infringement.
Legal Repercussions for the Celebrity-Backed Venue
This incident highlights the strict enforcement of civic and police regulations in Bengaluru, especially concerning nightlife and commercial operations. The Karnataka Police Act carries provisions that can lead to penalties for establishments that disobey permitted business hours, potentially resulting in fines or other legal consequences for the management.
While Shilpa Shetty is a prominent co-founder and the face of the brand, the immediate legal action has been directed at the on-ground staff and management responsible for the day-to-day operations. The case puts a spotlight on the compliance challenges faced by high-profile celebrity ventures in the hospitality sector.
Broader Impact on Bengaluru's Nightlife Scene
This is not an isolated incident in India's tech capital, which has seen a tug-of-war between a vibrant nightlife culture and regulatory norms. Police actions against upscale venues for timing violations serve as a reminder to all restaurant and bar owners about adhering to the law, irrespective of their ownership profile.
The outcome of this case against Bastion will be closely watched by the hospitality industry. It underscores the importance of rigorous internal checks to ensure all outlets, particularly those with celebrity associations, operate fully within the framework of local laws to avoid reputational and legal damage.
