Security laxity in Jamshedpur bars raises concerns

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, May 29: The recent incident of the murder of DJ operator Sandeep Pramanik at the Extreme Bar in a posh area of Ranchi, accompanied by indiscriminate firing outside the bar, has brought attention to the security lapses in other bars operating in the state. With over 90 bars in Jamshedpur alone, where liquor flows until late at night, instances of altercations during drinking are not uncommon. However, there appears to be a lack of strict enforcement by the district police in overseeing these establishments. Consequently, many bars operate without adequate security measures, posing a potential threat to patrons’ safety.

Most bars in the city lack security arrangements and are not subject to inspection by the district administration. Consequently, some bars continue to illegally sell liquor even after closing hours, raising concerns about public safety. Notably, at Patiala Bar in Bistupur, crowds gather late into the night, with patrons seen consuming alcohol both inside and outside the premises, making it challenging for women to traverse the area safely. Unfortunately, there is minimal scrutiny of individuals entering and exiting bars, allowing criminals to frequent these establishments.

On April 4, SDO Parul Singh uncovered an illegal dance bar operating at the Royal Hills Hotel in Mango. Following a raid, 10 individuals associated with the dance bar were arrested and charged. Additionally, a case was filed against the bar operator for running an illegal hookah bar on the premises. However, the operator remains at large.

Several incidents of violence, including shootings and fatalities, have occurred within the city’s bars. In a recent altercation at Hotel City Inn’s bar in Pardih, a hotel bouncer fired at a young man, resulting in injuries. Furthermore, instances like the firing near DD Bar and the fatal shooting at Sagar Bar in Sakchi underscore the need for enhanced security measures. Despite such incidents, lax oversight persists, with drunkards congregating outside liquor shops late into the evening, notably in Telco Azad Market.

With more than 90 bars operating in the city and its environs, there is a pressing need for improved security measures. While some bars employ bouncers to handle disputes, most lack adequate security arrangements. Additionally, areas like NH and Dobo witness gatherings of inebriated individuals late into the night, with no intervention from local law enforcement.

Concerningly, neither the police nor the Excise Department routinely inspect beer bars in the city and its surroundings, allowing operators to disregard security protocols openly. To address these concerns, SSP Kishore Kaushal has issued directives to all police station in-charges, emphasizing the need for collaboration with the Excise Department to verify bar licenses. Furthermore, stringent enforcement of opening and closing times, prohibition of underage entry, and regular police patrols are essential to ensure public safety in bars. Additionally, employee background checks will be conducted to uphold security standards.  

Action against hotels and bars if weapons found: SSP

Jamshedpur, May 29: Following the recent shooting incident at a bar in Ranchi, stringent directives have been issued to all major hotel, restaurant, and bar owners in Jamshedpur by SSP Kishore Kaushal. CCR DSP Anjani Tiwari is currently leading the investigation. Instructions have been given to install CCTV cameras in bars and hotels and conduct thorough checks on individuals before allowing entry into the premises. Severe action will be taken against bar owners if anyone is found carrying weapons inside the establishment. CCR DSP emphasized that following the SSP’s orders, comprehensive guidelines have been issued regarding bars throughout the city. The district police are actively working to prevent a recurrence of the Ranchi incident in Jamshedpur. Discussions will be held with bar owners on all aspects to address such criminal incidents effectively in the city. Additionally, heightened patrolling has been implemented, and everyone has been tasked with maintaining heightened vigilance over bars.