Gangtok: In a significant move to address public safety and preserve the cultural heritage of Sikkim, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has issued a directive mandating all discos and pubs in the state to close by 11 PM.
The order, aimed at curbing late-night incidents and maintaining a balance between modern entertainment and traditional values, comes with strict warnings of license cancellations for venues found violating the rule.
Highlighting the need for moderation, CM Tamang emphasized that enjoying nightlife should not come at the cost of Sikkim’s rich traditions and public safety. “In this age of computers and laptops, we can still enjoy discos and pubs, but everything must be done in moderation. There must be limits,” he stated. Stressing that the directive is not merely a request, the chief minister reiterated that it is a mandate to be enforced across the state.
The decision follows a spike in late-night accidents, including several fatalities linked to drunk driving, which have raised alarm among authorities. CM Tamang cited the tragic loss of lives, including four police personnel, as a catalyst for the order. To ensure strict compliance, he has instructed the newly appointed Director General of Police (DGP), IPS Akshay Sachdeva, to oversee the enforcement of the curfew.
The Chief Minister also issued a stern warning to disco and pub owners, stating, “If a disco or pub is found open after 11 PM, the license will be canceled, and the police station in charge could face suspension or termination.” He called on venue operators to cooperate with the new regulations, emphasizing that failure to comply would result in severe penalties for both owners and local law enforcement.
In addition to addressing public safety, CM Tamang expressed his gratitude to outgoing DGP AK Singh for his dedicated service to Sikkim. Recognizing Singh’s contributions to maintaining law and order, the chief minister extended his best wishes for his future endeavors.
The new directive reflects the government’s commitment to balancing modernization with tradition while prioritizing the safety and well-being of its citizens.
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