​10.30 pm closing time for commercial establishments sparks mixed reactions in Jalna

​Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Almost a week after Jalna police issued an order to close all shops, hotels and other commercial establishments by 10:30 pm, the decision has been producing mixed reactions.

The order issued by Jalna superintendent of Police Teghbir Singh Sandhu warns action against establishments as per the Bombay Police Act, 1951 for any violations. Instructions have been issued to increase patrolling and record cases of violations in the station diary of police stations for further action.

Ex-vice-president of Jalna district Bar Association advocate Mahesh S Dhannawat said the order has caused inconvenience to citizens and the local business community among others.

“The order has been adversely impacting the local economy and therefore earlier timing of 11 pm closure of commercial establishments be reintroduced,” he said.

Pravin Khadke, a local resident, said advancing the closure timing of commercial establishments is a welcome step. “The city needs more discipline. Many youths are going astray due to indulgence in night life,” he said.

When contacted, in-charge of the local crime branch, Jalna, said there was an increase in street crimes among other offences in the recent past.

“Incidents of murders and other serious crimes have been reported in the recent past. The menace of addicts of drugs and alcohol was also increased. To keep law and order intact and ensure protection of citizens, the 10.30 pm closure timing for commercial establishments is introduced by the SP,” he said.