Nagpur: Following reports of enclosed cabins, curtains and partitioned seating at cafes coming under police scrutiny after two POCSO cases, the Nagpur Police have issued a detailed set of guidelines for cafes and other establishments, directing owners to prevent misuse of private spaces and ensure the safety and dignity of customers, particularly women and other guests.
Under the directions, establishments permitting smoking must provide a separate, enclosed designated smoking area in accordance with the law. Smoking will not be permitted in common customer or dining areas, and prominent ‘No Smoking’ signs must be displayed. Establishments have also been directed to prevent the use of e-cigarettes and vapes in accordance with the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019. Violations may invite action under relevant provisions of COTPA, 2003.
Police have specifically prohibited the creation of fully enclosed rooms or cabins and the use of curtains, cardboard, plywood or similar materials to create concealed spaces. Such arrangements had allegedly come to the notice of police for being misused for inappropriate activities.
The guidelines also prohibit the sale or consumption of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances on the premises. CCTV cameras must cover entry and exit points, service areas, seating spaces, counters and passages leading to washrooms, as well as all other areas accessible to customers.
Establishments have been directed to maintain two DVR systems and preserve CCTV footage for at least 15 days. The original DVR may be taken into police custody for verification following a complaint or incident.
Owners must conduct character verification of all security personnel and refrain from employing guards facing serious criminal or moral-turpitude charges. Adequate male and female security staff must be deployed, with owners held responsible for the safety, security and dignity of customers.
The directions further require establishments to prevent traffic obstruction caused by customer vehicles and conduct fire safety audits every six months.
Unruly customers must be denied service and escorted out, with the evacuation process recorded on video. Persons deliberately violating rules may be declared ‘unacceptable persons’ and barred from entering the establishment, with reasons documented in a separate register.
Any disorderly or inappropriate incident must be immediately reported to the local police, senior officers and Dial 112.
The order, issued on October 7, will remain in force from 12.01 am on October 8 until midnight on December 6, 2026, or until withdrawn. Violations will invite action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, besides other applicable laws.
