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A popular Chennai pub was ‘raided’ by the police Sunday night for allegedly running beyond permissible hours. The videos of the ‘raid’ were splashed on several local news channels including Thanthi TV and Polimer news, among others. But it has now emerged that the police action might have been prompted by some people who wanted to settle scores with the pub management with assistance from a section of the media.
According to the police, a few people in an inebriated state visited the pub late Sunday night. But the pub management refused to take their orders as it was already 11:30 pm – which is the cut-off time for pubs operating in the city.
The group reportedly questioned the presence of other guests at the pub. But were informed that those people were waiting for their cabs and some were about to finish their last drinks which were ordered prior to 11:30 pm.
Thereafter, an argument started between the group and the pub staff with the former ‘threatening’ the latter of dire consequences.
Sources said the pub management called the police seeking protection as they saw a few local TV channel crew arriving at the spot based on the directions of the inebriated group. Whereas, the media personnel also told the police that the pub was operating beyond permissible hours.
Notably, the TV channels have been criticised for trying to forcibly film women guests at the pub and for making ‘misogynistic’ remarks about their attire.
In the visuals, some women can be seen running out of the pub, covering their faces with kerchiefs and helmets.
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An official said they have brought the issue to the notice of the city police commissioner as they cannot allow ‘media power’ to be abused for personal agenda.
The police claimed they have not received a complaint from any of the women who were allegedly harassed by media personnel, but they will take action if a complaint is filed.
They also told indianexpress.com that no pub in-charge was arrested as reported by some channels.
(With inputs from Arun Janardhanan)
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