Bengaluru hoteliers push for 24/7 operations, eye legal action if police deny permission

Bengaluru’s hotel industry is pressing for round-the-clock business operations, following Karnataka’s recent government order permitting 24/7 service for commercial establishments employing ten or more workers. Despite the order, the city’s police department has yet to grant the necessary approval, prompting hoteliers to consider legal avenues to secure their rights.

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The Bruhat Bengaluru Hoteliers’ Association (BBHA) has been actively requesting support from the Home Department. Frustrated by delays, the association is prepared to escalate the matter legally if needed. Reportedly, members of BBHA expressed disappointment over the police department’s reluctance, stating that the state government has authorized 24/7 operations, yet they face obstacles from police. They have urged the Home Minister to address this issue else they will pursue a legal course.

On October 28, the BBHA sent a formal letter to Home Minister G. Parameshwara, emphasizing the public benefits of 24-hour hotel operations. Apart from offering food services, hotel establishments can provide essential amenities like drinking water and restroom access around the clock.

However, Bengaluru Police Commissioner B. Dayananda reportedly said that no formal request has been received from the association and the resolution to this issue rests with the state government and not the police.