Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara announced on Wednesday that the state government will ensure safe transport for individuals who are heavily intoxicated during New Year’s Eve festivities. Speaking to the media, he stated that 15 designated rest points have been set up where people can stay until they sober up.
Parameshwara said, "We will not drop everyone off at home. Those who have drunk heavily, who are unable to walk, and who have reached a state of losing consciousness will be taken. We have set up resting places at 15 locations. They will be kept there until the intoxication wears off and then sent back."
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He added that such incidents are most common in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi, Belagavi, and Mangaluru. On New Year’s Eve, Bengaluru Police will also provide a special home-drop service for those inebriated.
On Women’s Safety
1. The minister said special precautions have been taken for women’s safety, noting that some women may be in vulnerable conditions during celebrations, and warned that such situations must not be misused. As a result, all 30 districts in the state have been put on alert.
2. He added that instructions have been issued to bars and pubs, and the government is closely monitoring safety arrangements to prevent any untoward incidents, especially in crowded places.
3. He pointed out that major cities such as Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi, Belagavi and Mangaluru witness large crowds, including many visitors from outside the state, and the risk of pushing and jostling increases during celebrations, which is why authorities are exercising extra caution.
On Drink And Drive Case
1. The government has instructed police to strictly register drink-and-drive cases, with checks at 160 identified locations, warning that crossing safe limits makes driving dangerous and could lead to fatal accidents for both drivers and others.
2. To enhance monitoring, police personnel will wear body cameras connected directly to the command centre, allowing real-time supervision and quick response if additional force is needed.
3. Authorities will manage large crowds with heightened security from multiple angles, including the possibility of terrorist threats, and aim to control the situation over the next two days to prevent loss of life.
CM On New Year Eve Security
Earlier on Tuesday, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said that extensive security measures have been put in place in Bengaluru to ensure safety during the celebrations, with over 20,000 police personnel deployed across the city, supported by specialised women squads, according to a post he shared on X.
"Bengaluru is all set to welcome 2026 with safety and smooth celebrations. Over 20,000 police personnel, supported by specialised women squads, are on duty across the city, focusing on high-traffic areas and women's safety. Modern technology will monitor crowds and traffic to keep the city moving. Measures are in place to prevent unsafe driving and other risks." DK Shivakumar said in a post on X.
(With ANI Inputs)