Sikkim Government Imposes New Rules on Restaurants, Pubs, and Discotheques

The Government of Sikkim has introduces new Set of rules to regulate the operation of restaurants, pubs, discothequea, karaoke, bar and similar ventures to a dress concern over public safety, culture values and welfare of the youths. This measure comes in an response to rising concern of late night accidents and admission of individuals below 21 and in uniforms as well as illegal serving of alcohol which officials claims violation of social norms and public health standards. Under this new set of rules the business ventures like restaurants, pubs, discothequea, karaoke, bar and similar ventures must be closer by 11 pm, including under 21 and students in school uniforms are strictly prohibited from entering the ventures, this regulation reflect the government commitment to safeguard youth and preserving sikkimese culture. In the rules the government has warned the violation will result in suspension penalties, fines including upto ₹50,000 and suspension or cancellation of trade licence under section 13 of Trade License and Miscellaneous Rules, 2011. Law enforcement officers failing to ensure the rule within their jurisdiction will also face strict consequences including possible termination from service.Implemented under Section 8(2)(e) of the Sikkim (Repeal and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1995, these regulations are effective immediately across the state. While some citizens applaud the move for its potential to enhance public safety, stakeholders in the hospitality industry have raised concerns about the impact on their businesses. This bold initiative underscores the state government’s zero-tolerance approach to law violations and its dedication to ensuring a safer and more culturally aligned environment for its residents.