Andhra Pradesh Cabinet Extends Bar Timings to 11 PM

Fast Summary:

• Andhra Pradesh cabinet approved the Bar Policy 2025-28.
• Bars will operate from 10 a.m.to 11 p.m., starting September 1, after the expiration of the Bar Policy 2022-25 on August 31.
• The new policy allows permit rooms, previously banned during YSR Congress Party’s tenure.
• Licensing system shifts from auctions to lottery-based allocation in areas with four or more applications per bar license available.
• License fees range from ₹35 lakh (population under 50,000) to ₹75 lakh (population over 5 lakh), with an submission fee of ₹5 lakh.
• Special reservation: 10% of bar licences allocated for toddy tappers at half the standard fee for promoting social welfare initiatives and inclusivity within the excise ecosystem.
• More than two lakh law and order cases due to open liquor consumption prompted this policy change.

Indian Opinion Analysis:
The introduction of Andhra Pradesh’s Bar Policy 2025-28 reflects a pragmatic approach aimed at rectifying operational difficulties seen under prior regulations while attempting inclusivity measures like reserving licenses for toddy tappers. Transitioning from an auction system to a lottery allocation could foster fair participation but may require robust oversight mechanisms to ensure clarity and efficiency in practice.

Balancing longer hours for bars against concerns over public safety is critical; though,reintroducing permit rooms seems designed to limit open consumption issues flagged by law enforcement data. The broader potential implications include more streamlined revenue collection alongside enhanced welfare measures targeting vulnerable groups within alcohol-related industries.

Read more: The Hindu Article