'Every party keeps evolving,' Sena leader Aditya Thackeray told NDTV.
Mumbai could soon pull out the stops to prove itself the entertainment capital of the country. Its 1.30 am deadline for restaurants and bars is likely to be discarded, an initiative championed by Aditya Thackeray, the 24-year-old leader of the Shiv Sena, which co-governs Maharashtra with the BJP.
Malls, clubs could stay open 24X7, along with chemists and convenience stores, tweeted Mr Thackeray, while suggesting "non-residential areas like Kala Ghoda, Nariman Point can be Special Entertainment Zones at night." The Shiv Sena, headed by Mr Thackeray's father Uddhav, is a right-wing party known for its conservative views. "Every party keeps evolving, and we do different things in different decades," said Mr Thackeray when asked about his campaign, which he believes will be good for tourism and revenue.
The young politician's proposal has been cleared by the city police; Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis of the BJP has said he will ask the state legislature to amend existing laws to allow Mumbai after-hours entertainment.
In addition to ensure there are more policemen on the streets late at night, public transport will have to be amped up. Mr Thackeray said that in areas that are residential, 90 per cent of the inhabitants will have to agree to allow bars or restaurants to stay open beyond the current deadline of 1.30 am. He said he is coordinating with the Transport Department to examine the viability of late-running local trains.
Mr Thackeray describes the impact of his plans as monumental.
The plan for an open-all-night Mumbai was prepped two years ago by the city's corporation, which is controlled by Mr Thackeray's party.
"By the time people get off work, go home, change and head out, it is already late. So it is not just good for youngsters but also people who are working late", said Ankita, a tattoo artist in the city. "It's okay when you need to grab a bite urgently but I am shaky about the safety aspect," said Millrid, a student from Xavier's college.