The Kamrup Metropolitan district administration has officially cancelled the IMFL ON licence of Exoro, a popular rooftop pub located in Guwahati’s Roodraksh Mall, Bhangagarh. The crackdown follows serious allegations that the establishment operated well beyond legal hours, potentially contributing to a recent fatal road accident.
The order, issued by District Commissioner Swapneel Paul on Wednesday, April 29, comes after investigations revealed that the pub remained operational until at least 3:00 AM. Under its current licensing conditions, the mandated closing time for such establishments is 12:30 AM.
In response to these findings:
- The pub’s operating licence has been revoked effective immediately.
- The Excise Department has been ordered to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the venue’s operations.
- A formal report is expected to be submitted within 15 days.
The administrative action was triggered by the tragic accident in the Mathgharia area. Video footage reportedly showed four individuals leaving Exoro late at night shortly before their vehicle was involved in a deadly collision.
Reports indicate that the group spent approximately ₹19,000 at the bar, continuing to be served liquor until 3:00 AM. After leaving the premises, the group drove at high speeds across the city, resulting in a crash that claimed the lives of three young women. The driver has since been arrested and remanded to four days of police custody.
“The establishment entertained and served liquor to the individuals until 03:00 AM, directly violating the 12:30 AM limit.” — Official District Administration Statement
The revocation follows an FIR filed at the Noonmati Police Station by Gauhati High Court advocate Geetima Bora. The complaint not only targeted the bar’s management for its negligence but also raised sharp questions regarding the Excise Department’s enforcement of late-night restrictions.
Bora’s FIR suggests that a lack of oversight may have allowed such violations to become routine, ultimately playing a role in the chain of events that led to the fatal incident.
Heightened Scrutiny in Guwahati
This incident has sparked a city-wide debate over the monitoring of nightlife and regulatory compliance. Residents and officials alike are calling for stricter enforcement of operating hours to prevent similar tragedies. The district administration’s swift move against Exoro serves as a stern warning to other establishments in the city regarding the consequences of violating public safety laws.
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