'Atithi Devo Bhava': Himachal CM Sukhu Asks Police Not To Lock Up Tipsy Guests During New Year Carnivals

Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has instructed the police to treat visitors during the New Year and Winter Carnivals with respect, even if they are tipsy.

Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhu has asked the police to stick to the principle of 'atithi devo bhava'.

Source : PTI

Planning to usher in the New Year by upping the 'chill & thrills' with your favourite drink and feeling the 'buzz' at the first Shimla and Dharamashala Winter Carnivals but are scared of cops and lockups? Well, you can put your worries to rest as Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has asked the state police to treat tourists with respect. 

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that tourists who visit the hill state to usher in the New Year and celebrate the Winter Carnivals must be cared for, even if they are a little tipsy. He said India is known for its principles of hospitality and the Himachal police and administration would adhere to that as visitors throng the state during the New Year and Winter Carnivals in Shimla and Dharamshala between December 24 and January 2.

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: On ten-day Shimla Winter Carnival, CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu says, "Since the Congress government came to power, we have initiated grand carnivals in Shimla and Dharamshala, and we are planning to organize the Manali Carnival on a similarly large scale.… pic.twitter.com/R9fSVUM1ZG

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"Since the Congress government came to power, we have initiated grand carnivals in Shimla and Dharamshala, and we are planning to organize the Manali Carnival on a similarly large scale. As you can see, such events are now happening frequently, showcasing our commitment to promoting culture and tourism," he said.

Restaurants To Remain Open 24×7

He said restaurants in Himachal will have no closure time and can remain open 24×7 till January 2 to cater to the huge rush of visitors. Sukhvinder Sukhu said that the decision was taken on request from several MLAs who cited the extreme rush of visitors. "No guest in Himachal should sleep hungry. This is why we have taken this decision."

He also said that his government can explore the possibility of continuing this arrangement if law & order at and around the establishments is maintained.

CM Sukhu's Order On Dealing With Tipsy Visitors

CM Sukhu further said: "Even if visitors with their families get a little tipsy in public places, the police have been instructed to lead them safely to their hotels. We are known for our 'atithi devo bhava [guest is god]' culture and Himachal is especially known for its hospitality. This must be continued." He said the police should not push tourists inside lockups just for getting a little tipsy.

At the same time, he urged tourists to maintain order and cleanliness in Himachal.