A public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court against alleged illegal liquor consumption and unauthorised constructions in the area stretching from East Shankar Nagar to Bajaj Nagar. The petition, filed by Dr Lalit Harode and other local residents, seeks strict action against several establishments including ‘Bakasur’, ‘NH-1’, ‘Corner House’, ‘Jack N Jill’, ‘Jagdish Saoji’, and ‘Sai Vatika Lawn’. The petitioners have alleged that liquor is being sold and consumed without proper licenses and that loud DJ music and bands disturb public peace late into the night. During the hearing, a division bench comprising Justice Anil Kilor and Justice Raj Wakode took note of the matter.

 

The court has impleaded the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) as a respondent and directed the Bajaj Nagar Police Station to file an additional affidavit. In its affidavit, the Bajaj Nagar police stated that action against encroachments does not fall within their jurisdiction. “The authority to take action against unauthorised constructions and encroachments lies with the Municipal Corporation and not the police,” the affidavit said. The police further informed the court that a total of 280 FIRs have been registered between 2016 and 2025 in connection with various illegal activities. Specific action was also taken against the ‘Jagdish Saoji’ restaurant, where cases were registered on July 28, 2018, and October 7, 2018. The establishment was later sealed for 15 days on December 16, 2021. “We are regularly conducting patrols and surprise inspections in the area to maintain law and order, especially during night hours,” the police stated in their reply. The petition also highlights that some lawns are operating on land belonging to Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth (PKV).

 

 

The police have clarified that primary responsibility for taking action against illegal constructions and violations of licensing norms lies with the Municipal Corporation and the Excise Department. They have requested the court to implead these authorities as respondents. The police also stated that notices have been issued to hotel owners from time to time, directing them to follow rules. A letter has been sent to the Municipal Commissioner seeking action against rooftop restaurants operating without required permissions. The matter is under further consideration by the High Court.