The Pune city police have initiated a strict crackdown on unauthorized hawkers, licensed vendors violating deadline norms, and eateries operating on footpaths or beyond permitted hours. The primary focus is on shutting down outlets that continue to operate after 10 p.m. without valid permission, as stated by Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar on Monday.
Clarification on the Move
Clarifying the action, Commissioner Kumar emphasized that no special prohibitory orders have been issued to restrict public movement. "People can move freely. These are fortnightly orders that are regularly issued by the police. The orders are intended to prevent criminals from gathering in groups and causing harm to society or property," he explained.
Areas Under Scrutiny
Regarding the ongoing action against roadside eateries and other establishments, the Commissioner noted that areas such as FC Road, JM Road, Karve Road, Kothrud, Baner, Kondhwa, Katraj, and Phursungi attract large crowds late at night for food and snacks. "Such places are also frequented by criminals," he added.
"We studied the issue and found that hawkers, both legal and illegal, were operating beyond the 10 p.m. deadline. We are shutting such establishments, including paan kiosks, at 10 p.m.," Kumar said.
Action Against Footpath Occupiers
The police are also shutting down and taking legal action against eateries that illegally occupy footpaths, causing inconvenience to pedestrians. "Some eateries were operating until 3 a.m. We have restricted them to 10 p.m. Licensed establishments such as restaurants and bars can function according to the deadlines mentioned in their licenses," Kumar added.
Prohibitory Orders in Pimpri Chinchwad
In Pimpri Chinchwad, Joint Commissioner of Police Shashikant Mahavarkar has issued prohibitory orders that will remain in force from 12 a.m. on May 27 until midnight on June 9. The orders ban carrying inflammable or explosive substances, stones, weapons, firearms, sticks, and sharp objects. Displaying or burning symbolic effigies or photographs of individuals is also prohibited.
The orders further state that raising provocative slogans, playing loud music, delivering inflammatory speeches, or circulating material that could threaten public morality, state security, or disturb law and order has been banned. The police have also barred gatherings of more than five people, holding public meetings, and taking out processions without prior permission from the Commissioner.
