Indore’s Night Culture Ban: CM Mohan Yadav orders clampdown amid rising crime concerns

K K Jha

Indore: Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has imposed an immediate ban on night culture in Indore, following a high-level video conference with ministers, MLAs, and other representatives from the Indore division on Friday. Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya highlighted issues related to the illegal drug trade and the operation of commercial establishments during late hours. In response, Yadav instructed the development of a comprehensive plan to regulate night markets, industrial institutions, office operations, and other related activities, alongside strict measures to control drug abuse.

Consequently, Collector Ashish Singh revoked the September 2022 order that had allowed 24-hour operations for various commercial, industrial, and office establishments along the BRTS corridor from Niranjanpur Square to Rajiv Gandhi Square. The night work culture, introduced by MP Shankar Lalwani, had led to increased incidents of hooliganism, harassment, assaults, drug use, and crimes against women, prompting opposition from Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya, former Minister Usha Thakur, and various representatives and intellectuals.

Former Culture Minister Usha Thakur criticized the night culture as a deviation from Indian traditions, labeling it a stain on Indore’s cultural fabric. She argued that it should not be accepted in the holy city of Devi Ahilya, citing numerous complaints from the public.

Issued on September 13, 2022, the night culture order allowed 24/7 operations for various establishments along an 11.45 km stretch of the BRTS corridor, under multiple laws including the Madhya Pradesh Penal Code, Shop and Establishment Act, Labor Laws, and Excise Act.

The night work culture aimed to support Indore’s IT professionals working online for foreign companies, who required a night work environment. It was expected to boost startups, attract talent from other cities, and generate employment, thus creating a demand for transportation, food, and other services. However, this also posed significant challenges for the police, administration, municipal corporation, and electricity company. Indore became the fifth city in India to implement night culture, ensuring nighttime cleanliness with garbage trucks operating during the night.