In an extensive overnight operation, the Pune Police raided and sealed Liquid Leisure Lounge (L3), a high-end bar located near Fergusson College Road, following a social media video showing minors consuming drugs in the bar’s washroom. The video, which surfaced on Sunday morning, led to widespread outrage, prompting an immediate investigation led by Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar.
The video depicted a couple of minor boys using drugs in the bar’s washroom while a party raged in the background. This alarming incident triggered the police to conduct a raid at the establishment, which was reportedly continuing its operations even after the front entrance had been closed at 1:30 AM. The backdoor of the venue was used to allow guests to continue partying until dawn, with footage of the event being leaked on social media.
The police operation resulted in the arrest of several individuals, including the bar’s owner Santosh Kamthe, franchisee Ravi Maheshwari, manager Manas Malik, and staff members Utkarsh Deshmane and Yogendra Girafe. The accused will be presented before a Pune Magistrate court later today.
Simultaneously, two police officials, including a police inspector and an assistant police inspector, were placed under investigation for their alleged failure to address the ongoing illegal activities at the venue, which was under their jurisdiction. Despite clear violations of regulations, the officers are accused of turning a blind eye to the situation.
The incident has garnered political attention, with Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde calling it a serious matter and promising stringent efforts to curb drug-related crimes in Pune and throughout the state. Additionally, newly-elected Pune MP and Union Minister Murlidhar K. Mohol expressed concerns over the negative impact on Pune’s image and assured strong action.
The opposition parties have also weighed in, with NCP (SP) President Jayanti Patil, Congress MLA Ravindra Dhangekar, and Shiv Sena (UBT) Deputy Leader Sushma Andhare criticizing the state’s inability to control recent criminal activities. The opposition has called for the resignation of Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, accusing him of mishandling the law and order situation.
