Restaurants and bars currently have a deadline of 1.30 am in Mumbai.
Aditya Thackeray, the young leader of the Shiv Sena, has said that his proposal to scrap the 1:30 am deadlines for restaurants and bars to remain open in Mumbai has been accepted by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
"Tweeps the GOOD News is CM has accepted my proposal of nightlife and assured me tht necessary amendments to laws by March/August Session (sic)," tweeted Mr Thackeray, whose party co-governs Maharashtra with the BJP.
Mr Thackeray had earlier tweeted to say that malls and clubs could stay open 24X7, along with chemists and convenience stores, 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 already been cleared by the city police.
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.