The Maharashtra Government has allowed shops and commercial establishments, including residential hotels, restaurants, eateries, theatres, places of public amusement or entertainment, to remain open 24 hours across the State. A Government Resolution (GR) issued to this effect on October 1, however, made it clear that establishments involved in the sale and supply of liquor, including wine shops, beer bars, dance bars, hookah parlours, discotheques and permit rooms, cannot operate 24 hours.

 

The GR says that shops and commercial establishments may remain open on all days of the week, provided that every employee is allowed a continuous rest period of at least 24 hours in a week. The working hours of the above establishments will continue to remain restricted. In a notification issued on December 19, 2017, the State Government had fixed opening and closing hours for establishments such as permit rooms, beer bars, dance bars, hookah parlours, discotheques, and all establishments where liquor is sold as well as wine shops, theatres and cinema halls. Subsequently, in a notification dated January 31, 2020, the Government excluded theatres and cinema halls from the earlier notification, leaving only establishments selling or serving liquor covered under time restrictions. The GR specified that the above provisions must be strictly enforced by local administrations and police departments. Arjundas Ahuja, President of Nag Vidarbha Chamber of Commerce (NVCC), has expressed happiness over the decision and said that it will benefit both - traders and customers. “The traders will now have the freedom to run the businesses as per their convenience. It will also allow the buyers to buy essential products such as medicines round the clock. Apart from this, the decision will create new jobs in all parts of the State,” he added. 

 

 

Welcoming the decision, Shrawan Kumar Malu, President VTA, said, “This is indeed a landmark decision by the State Government which will provide a big boost to Maharashtra’s economy. Extended operating hours will not only help businesses cater to diverse customer needs but will also generate more employment opportunities and accelerate economic activities.” Tejinder Singh Renu, Secretary of VTA, hailed this decision and said, it carries special significance for Nagpur. As the city continues to attract interest from multinational companies (MNCs) for setting up offices, one of the key concerns often raised is the lack of a vibrant nightlife. This reform addresses that gap and will further position Nagpur as a modern, business-friendly metropolis. “We also urge the Police Department to extend their support and adopt a positive approach in implementing this initiative effectively. As the city grows, such steps will help create more local opportunities, reduce brain drain, and make Nagpur a preferred destination for businesses and professionals alike”.