As the city gears up to ring in 2026, Bengaluru City Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh has issued a high-alert warning to revelers. Under the newly launched "Celebrate Responsibly" campaign, the Commissioner emphasized that while the city is ready for festivities, any form of public nuisance, misbehavior, or illegal activity will be met with "stringent legal action."
"No Tolerance" for Nuisance
The Commissioner made it clear that the police force will be out in full strength to monitor the streets, especially in party hotspots like MG Road, Brigade Road, and Indiranagar.
- Public Misbehavior: Anyone found harassing others, involving in eve-teasing, or creating a ruckus in public spaces will be detained immediately.
- Prohibited Items: Following last year’s chaos, the use of whistles and full-face masks in public places is strictly discouraged to ensure identification and maintain order.
- Deadlines: All New Year events in hotels, pubs, and clubs must conclude by 1:00 AM on January 1st.
Massive Crackdown on Drunk Driving
The Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP) have already begun a special drive. Hundreds of checkpoints will be set up across the city on the night of December 31st.
"Every street will be monitored. If you are caught driving under the influence of alcohol, your license will be seized and sent for suspension immediately. We urge citizens to use public transport or cabs," the Commissioner warned.
To assist citizens, Namma Metro has announced extended services until 2:00 AM, and more BMTC buses will be operational on key routes.
Security and Women's Safety
- High-Tech Surveillance: For the first time, AI-based crowd movement analysis and CCTV cameras with smoke/fire detection capabilities are being deployed.
- Safety Islands: Dedicated "Women Safety Islands" and the Chennamma Squad (all-women police teams) will be stationed in crowded areas to provide immediate assistance.
- Access Control: Entry to Brigade Road and MG Road will be regulated via specific entry/exit points (e.g., entry from Kaveri Emporium) to prevent overcrowding.
Guidelines for Event Organizers
Pub and bar owners have been given a 19-point guideline, which includes:
- Mandatory fire safety clearances.
- No parties in basements, parking areas, or terraces.
- Visible "No Drugs / No Smoking" signage.
- Storing CCTV footage for a minimum of 30 days.
The Commissioner concluded by asking citizens to download the KSP App and use the SOS feature in case of emergencies. "Our priority is to ensure that every citizen returns home safely after the celebration," he said.
