A major controversy erupted in Pune after a freshers’ party at Kiki Pub, Bund Garden, reportedly allowed underage students to enter and served alcohol without verifying their age. In response, Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar announced that DigiLocker ID verification will now be mandatory for entry into pubs across the city.
Reports indicate that the incident occurred at Kiki Pub in Rajabahadur Mills, where a freshers’ party was held for students from reputed colleges. Allegations suggest that hundreds of students, some as young as 17, were served alcohol without proper ID checks or entry records.
The Maharashtra Navnirman Vidyarthi Sena (MNS) disrupted the party, alleging that the event violated regulations and put minors at risk. The incident sparked widespread outrage and raised serious questions about the enforcement of safety and licensing norms.
Taking the matter seriously, Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar directed that all pubs and FL-III licensed establishments must verify customers’ ages using DigiLocker before allowing entry. He also urged colleges to warn students against attending such events and warned that strict action would be taken against anyone violating the law.
What Went Wrong?
Police officials revealed that the organisers had not obtained prior permission for the event, a mandatory requirement under city regulations. Around 100–150 students were invited, and allegations of direct alcohol service to students aged 17–24 prompted swift action from MNS and the State Excise Department, who later reached the site and took necessary measures.