The Assam government is considering a proposal to extend the operating hours of elite bars and restaurants until 2 AM, a move that has sparked discussions among stakeholders. The proposal follows a broader policy shift that allows shops and establishments in Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and Silchar municipal areas to operate 24/7, with specific restrictions for businesses along state highways and minor roads.
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Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently found himself in the midst of controversy when he initially announced that liquor shops would remain open until 2 AM, only to later retract the statement. The confusion arose after a press conference in Dibrugarh where the CM detailed the extended business hours across the state. Following public outcry and concerns over law and order, Sarma took to social media to clarify that the extended hours do not apply to liquor outlets.
However, sources within the Excise department have now revealed that the government is actively considering extending the closing time for elite bars and restaurants. A senior official, speaking to GPlus on condition of anonymity, stated, "There are proposals from many elite bars to extend the timing till 2 AM. The government is reviewing these requests, and it is likely that the extension will be approved." The official further confirmed that there is no proposal under consideration to extend the timings of liquor shops.
While bar owners may welcome the possible extension, they remain frustrated over the increased annual renewal fees that have been in effect since April 1 this year. Previously, the renewal fee for bars was ₹2.5 lakh. Under the revised structure, bars within municipal areas are now required to pay:
· ₹4 lakh for establishments up to 1,000 sq. ft.
· ₹6 lakh for establishments between 1,000 and 2,500 sq. ft.
· ₹8 lakh for establishments exceeding 2,500 sq. ft.
In rural areas, the renewal fee has doubled from ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh. For bars in municipal board areas (small towns), the new fee structure is as follows:
· ₹3 lakh for establishments up to 2,000 sq. ft.
· ₹4 lakh for establishments above 2,000 sq. ft.
Many bar owners have expressed concerns over these hikes, fearing that the increased financial burden could lead to business closures. A bar owner from Ulubari stated, "Many bars will shut down. The increase is too steep, and sales are not what they used to be. Extending operating hours could help mitigate some of these financial pressures."
As the Assam government deliberates on extending elite bar timings, stakeholders remain hopeful that a balanced approach will be adopted to support businesses while addressing public concerns.