Authorities in Chhattisgarh have placed police forces across the state on high alert in anticipation of New Year's Eve celebrations. Stringent directives have been disseminated to all districts with the primary aim of preventing incidents of drunk driving, public nuisance, and any breaches of law and order. The police have unequivocally stated that all festivities must remain "within the law."
Comprehensive Directives for Raipur and Durg
A high-level preparatory meeting was convened at the Civil Lines police control room in Raipur. The session, chaired by Raipur range IG Amresh Mishra and SSP Lal Umed Singh, involved CSPs and ASPs. Following this, senior officers met with proprietors of hotels, restaurants, cafes, dhabas, farmhouses, and bars. They were instructed to ensure all celebrations are under CCTV surveillance.
SSP Singh issued clear orders: DJs and loud music at parties must cease by 10 PM, and all celebrations should conclude by 12:30 AM. The police warned of legal action and potential licence cancellation for venues found selling liquor without a permit, supplying drugs, or playing music beyond the permitted time. Furthermore, parking on main or service roads outside venues is prohibited. Police will hold the management of the venue accountable for traffic disruptions caused by haphazard parking, not just individual vehicle owners.
In a related move, shops in the outer areas of Raipur will remain closed between 12:00 AM and 12:30 AM as a crowd-control measure. The guidelines also state that public drinking—on roads, in parked vehicles, or other public spaces—will invite legal action. Venues found to be hubs for drugs or serious violations will face licence cancellation.
Meanwhile, Durg police have issued a stern warning against hooliganism. SSP Vijay Agrawal declared that individuals caught cutting cakes on roads, performing bike or car stunts, or creating public nuisance may face immediate jail time. All activities on roads and public spaces will be closely monitored for violations.
Enhanced Surveillance in Bilaspur and Bastar
Bilaspur police are leveraging technology for enhanced monitoring. Drone cameras and interceptor vehicles will be deployed to keep a watch on crowded areas from the evening of December 31 until the morning of January 1. SSP Rajneesh Singh stated that more than 800 police personnel and over 100 home guard jawans have been deployed for night-long patrolling across urban and rural areas. Action will be taken against those playing loud music, driving vehicles without silencers, triple-riding on motorcycles, or carrying illegal weapons.
In the Bastar region, security has been intensified for the four-day period leading up to the New Year. Police in Jagdalpur and other parts are on high alert, with around 300–400 personnel deployed. Nearly 150 CCTV cameras are being used to monitor key locations across Jagdalpur city to ensure peace and order.
State-Wide Appeal for Responsible Celebration
The overarching directive from police departments across all districts bans activities like cake-cutting and stunts on roads. Farmhouses, hotels, bars, and event venues have been specifically warned against serving liquor without a licence, selling illegal alcohol, or allowing drug use on their premises.
Police have made a unified appeal to citizens to celebrate the New Year responsibly and to immediately report any emergencies or suspicious activities to the authorities. The extensive preparations underscore the administration's commitment to ensuring a safe and peaceful transition into the new year for all residents of Chhattisgarh.
