Thane civic body launches drive to raze illegal bars, pubs after CM's directions

THANE: The TMC in Maharashtra initiated a demolition drive on Thursday to take down illegal bars and pubs in the city. This action was taken following Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's orders, which came in response to an incident of alleged drug consumption at a similar establishment in Pune, the TMC had already demolished at least five such illegal establishments in various parts of the city.

The chief minister had instructed the municipal and police commissioners of Thane and the neighboring Mira Bhayandar township to "pull down and bulldoze all illegal bars and pubs as well as properties engaged in drug-related activities in their jurisdictions." Acting on these directions, TMC commissioner Saurabh Rao commenced the demolition drive, which is set to continue throughout the city.
The operation is being carried out with the deployment of a large number of police personnel and the use of bulldozers and JCB machines.
Chief Minister Shinde emphasized the need for stringent measures to curb the consumption of narcotic drugs, which he believes is having a negative impact on the younger generation. Earlier this week, the PMC also began cracking down on unauthorized structures at pubs and bars in the city, following timing-related violations and alleged drug use at the Liquid Leisure Lounge (L3) bar on Sunday.
The police have arrested eight individuals, including an event organizer, and suspended four police personnel in connection with the incident. Additionally, the state excise department has arrested six waiters from L3 for allegedly violating norms related to serving liquor.