HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
In a bid to safeguard business growth and uphold the vibrancy of Pune’s tourism and hospitality sector, the Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI, has directed an appeal to key government officials, including Hon’ble Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Dy. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Secretary Dr. Nitin Kareer, Tourism Minister Girish Mahajan, and Principal Secretary of Tourism, Jayashree Bhog.
The appeal, addressing concerns over recent regulatory measures, particularly a Section 144 order issued by the Pune Police Commissioner, underscores potential threats to the hospitality industry’s vitality. The order, perceived as draconian by the Association, aims to regulate restaurants and entertainment establishments, raising apprehensions about its adverse impact on business operations.
“This order has startled the entire industry. Its implementation lacks justification for invoking Section 144 of the CrPC. Targeting establishments with FLIII licenses without differentiation overlooks their diverse contributions and undermines governmental efforts to promote ‘Ease of Doing Business’. We urge urgent intervention from the Chief Minister and Dy. Chief Minister to preserve the industry’s vitality and ‘Ease of Doing Business’ in Pune,” remarked Pradeep Shetty, President, HRAWI.
Highlighting grievances with the order, HRAWI emphasises concerns regarding encroachment on fundamental rights, disproportionate directives, and undue burden on establishments to manage guest behavior, including traffic regulation conditions beyond their jurisdiction.
Chetan Mehta, Vice President, HRAWI, added, “The order’s directives extend into areas governed by Excise and Prohibition laws, introducing new regulations without legal authority, potentially impeding restaurant amenities and increasing bureaucratic hurdles.”
The hospitality industry advocates for a fair and equitable regulatory framework, emphasizing collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders to develop solutions ensuring public safety without compromising business viability.
For Pune’s culinary and entertainment landscape to thrive sustainably, HRAWI urges the Maharashtra Government to reconsider these measures, aligning regulatory efforts with industry needs while preserving the city’s unique charm.
