Nashik Police Crack Down on Hotels Ahead of Kumbh Mela
In a proactive measure to ensure security during the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela, the Trimbakeshwar police in Nashik rural have registered cases against the owners and managers of five hotels and lodges. The action was taken during a two-day special drive that concluded on Tuesday, targeting establishments that failed to maintain proper guest registration records.
Drive Aims to Enforce Security Guidelines
The initiative was launched to enforce strict compliance with security guidelines issued to accommodation providers. With the Kumbh Mela expected to attract a massive influx of pilgrims, the police are leaving no stone unturned to prevent any potential security breaches.
Inspector Mahesh Kulkarni stated, “The owners and managers of the hotels and lodges have been booked under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for disobedience to orders issued by a public servant. They basically failed to maintain proper registration logs of the guests checking into their establishments.”
Mandatory Requirements for Hotels
The police emphasized that maintaining detailed visitor logs and collecting valid identity proof are mandatory requirements for all accommodation providers. Kulkarni added, “Such inspections will continue in the lead-up to the Kumbh Mela, given the anticipated heavy footfall. Anti-social elements can attempt to blend in with pilgrims and misuse local accommodation to plan or carry out criminal activities.”
Superintendent of police D S Swami has issued strict directives to ensure that these checks are conducted regularly, according to Kulkarni. The police also highlighted that criminals often use hotels and lodges to evade law enforcement or execute illegal activities.
Hoteliers Urged to Comply
Hoteliers have been urged to maintain accurate visitor records, collect proper identification, and ensure comprehensive CCTV surveillance to help identify all guests. The police warned that non-compliance will result in strict legal action, and further inspections are planned to ensure all establishments adhere to the guidelines.
