Mantralaya Times 26/09/2016
MUMBAI: Aaditya Thackeray has revived the Shiv Sena’s plan to keep restaurants, malls, and coffee shops open around the clock ahead of next year’s BMC elections.
The Yuva Sena chief, speaking at the first India Nightlife Convention and Awards on Sunday, also took a dig at the BJP when he blamed the state government for delaying the nightlife plan approved by the BMC in 2013.
The plan, which was first mooted by Thackeray, was put forth in 2013 by Makarand Narwekar, corporator from Colaba, was given a green signal by former police commissioner Rakesh Maria. In 2014, the Sena even came up with a plan to set up ‘special entertainment zones’ in areas such as Nariman Point, Bandra Kurla Complex, Carter Road and allowing establishments in malls like High Street Phoenix in Lower Parel to run all night.
However, the plan was opposed by several BJP legislators, including Colaba legislator Raj Purohit, and has been waiting for approval by the state government. “How can something that is legal in the day become illegal after midnight? Mumbai is known for its safety and Mumbaikars must be trusted. Having restaurants and cafes, medical and convenience stores open at night will only make the city safer. Why are they open only till 1:30 am? Let them stay open until 5 or 6 am. Our nightlife plan was passed by the BMC unanimously in 2013 and it is still pending with the state government. The government is not with me on this as yet,” Thackeray said.