Pune Residents Demand Closure of Highland Bar in Mohammadwadi Over Safety and Public Nuisance Concerns, Write to NHRC
Pune: Residents of Demand Closure of Highland Bar In Mohammadwadi Over Safety and Public Nuisance Concerns, Write To NHRCÂ
Pune, May 30, 2026: Residents of Elina Living Society and nearby residential complexes in Mohammadwadi, Pune, have submitted a formal complaint to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the State Excise Department, and other authorities seeking immediate action against the operation of Highland Bar located at NIBM Annexe Road.
The complaint, submitted by social activist and BJP member Jaymala Dhankikar on behalf of residents, alleges that the bar’s operation in a densely populated residential area has created serious concerns related to public safety, women’s security, noise pollution, traffic obstruction, and public nuisance.
According to the complaint, residents have been facing daily disturbances caused by alleged late-night shouting, fights, abusive language, and gatherings of intoxicated individuals near the entrances of residential societies including Elina Living Society, Cloud 9, and Nine Hills. The complainants stated that such activities have severely affected the peace and quality of life of families, senior citizens, women, and children living in the locality.
The representation further claims that women residents often feel unsafe due to alleged indecent behaviour, comments, and intimidation by intoxicated individuals near society gates during evening and night hours. The complaint cites provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, related to harassment and public obscenity.
Residents also expressed concern about the impact of the liquor establishment on children, alleging that minors are regularly exposed to drunken behaviour, verbal abuse, smoking, physical altercations, and late-night disturbances outside residential premises.
The complaint additionally highlights issues of illegal parking and traffic congestion allegedly caused by bar patrons, claiming that vehicles parked irresponsibly obstruct society entrances, pedestrian movement, and emergency access routes. Loud music and noise beyond permissible hours, public urination, littering, and unhygienic conditions have also been raised as major concerns.
The residents have urged authorities to verify whether the establishment possesses valid excise, fire safety, parking, and zoning permissions, and whether the bar complies with operational and residential zoning regulations.
Invoking provisions under the Maharashtra Prohibition Act, Maharashtra Police Act, Environment Protection Act, Noise Pollution Rules, and Article 21 of the Constitution of India, the complainants have demanded immediate inspection and inquiry into the functioning of the establishment.
The residents have sought strict action against alleged violations, increased police patrolling in the area, and suspension or cancellation of the bar’s operational licence if violations are confirmed. They have also requested the immediate closure or relocation of the establishment from the entrance of the residential complex in the interest of public safety and welfare.
Copies of the complaint have also been marked to the Pune Police Commissioner, Pune District Collector, Mohammadwadi/Wanowrie ward office, and the Maharashtra State Human Rights Commissioner.
