Delhi: Going clubbing? You may be ‘profiled’

Nightclubs and discotheques at five-star hotels in the Capital must ‘profile’ customers to keep a check on rowdy elements if they want their closing times extended, the police has said.

Nightclubs and discotheques at five-star hotels in the Capital must ‘profile’ customers to keep a check on rowdy elements if they want their closing times extended, the police has said.

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The recommendation came after five-star hotels requested the Delhi government to let them stay open till around 4am.

The government formed a committee to look into the matter, which proposed that the closing time be relaxed by 30 minutes. It also recommended that establishments profile customers, maintain a data sheet of visitors and share it with the police on a regular basis through feedback forms. HT has a copy of the recommendations made by the committee.

Hotel security can also ask for identification proof from guests, the police said. “Hotel management will arrange bouncers, CCTV system and other necessary security gadgets suggested by the police,” said the committee.

The final decision on the matter will be taken by lieutenant governor Najeeb Jung.

Currently, excise licences allow five-star hotels to serve liquor round-the-clock but Delhi police permits eateries to serve food only till 1am. Playing music and dancing at nightclubs and discotheques is allowed up to 12.30am.

Delhi Police asked hotels to take measures to ensure women’s safety. “If hotels start profiling visitors, it will act as a deterrent for illegal activities. Hotels can even ask for identification proof and should have the right to refuse admission,” said a senior police official.

“Hotels can ensure security in their premises but once guests leave, it will be the responsibility of the police. To allow pubs to be operational might be commercially viable but will lead to crimes against women,” the officer added.