Maharashtra Cabinet Approves Mumbai Nightlife Proposal, Malls, Multiplexes To Remain Open 24x7 In Some Areas

Maharashtra Cabinet on Wednesday approved a proposal that allows nightlife in Mumbai. Once implemented, malls, shops, eateries in non-residential areas like Bandra Kurla Complex and Nariman Point will remain open 24x7. “Proposal of Mumbai 24x7 has been approved by Cabinet today. From 27th January malls, multiplexes, shops and eateries in non-residential areas like Bandra Kurla Complex and Nariman Point will remain open 24x7. However, we won't impose this on anyone,” state Tourism Minister Aaditya Thackeray said while addressing a press conference.

Earlier, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government said that it may postpone the plan to implement the idea of nightlife from Republic Day owing to the strain it would put on the police.

Maharashtra Minister Aaditya Thackeray: Proposal of Mumbai 24x7 has been approved by Cabinet today. From 27th January malls, multiplexes,shops&eateries in non-residential areas like Bandra Kurla Complex&Nariman Point will remain open 24x7. However, we won't impose this on anyone. pic.twitter.com/Hw6QRJbzWb

— ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2020

BJP demanded that Maharashtra government should spell out the rules and regulations

Senior BJP leader Ashish Shelar on Saturday demanded that the Maharashtra government spell out the rules and regulations being formulated to implement the nightlife policy in Mumbai.

Shelar said the BJP will welcome the move if it is aimed at benefitting small traders whose businesses are suffering due to online giants like Amazon and Flipkart. "However, if restaurants, bars, and pubs remain open in residential areas, the BJP would oppose the move," Shelar said.

He said the opposition party wanted clarity on rules and regulations regarding the new policy. "The BJP is against operation of pubs, discotheques, and bars functioning full night," Shelar said.

Counting cons of the policy, he said police are already stressed due to long duty hours. "Moreover, BMC staff will also need to be available throughout nights along with FDA personnel (to implement the policy). This is creating additional pressure on them," the BJP MLA said.

"What goal you want to achieve? What is your agenda and priorities? January 26 is a dry day while the state government wants to start nightlife. Which direction does the government want to go?" he questioned.

Earlier Thackeray said that shops, malls, and eateries in the non-residential areas of the metropolis will have the option of remaining open 24x7 from January 26, although it will not be made compulsory.