PUNE: A local pub in Pune has stirred controversy by allegedly distributing condoms and ORS packets alongside party invitations for their New Year’s Eve celebration. This unconventional invitation package has caused significant public backlash, leading to police involvement and subsequent questioning of the invited guests.
Senior police inspector Nilkanth Jagtap at Mundhwa police station confirmed, “The Pub head sent an advisory to the invitees ahead of the party. The advisory urged people to use helmets, keep hydrated, and avoid ‘drink and drive’. This was for the safety precautions during New Year’s Eve.
“Along with this advisory, the pub management has also sent some helmets to its selected invitees and a goody bag which included a packet of condoms. This was sent to around 40 guests who are regular to the pub and were expected to attend the New Year party,” Jagtap said.
The incident gained attention when one recipient shared photographs of the gift package on Facebook, triggering widespread condemnation, as confirmed by the police inspector.
Subsequently, the pub decided to cancel the party. Following a complaint, the police recorded statements from several guests and the management to investigate the matter further. Notices have been issued, and the inquiry is ongoing.
The investigation was initiated after a complaint by Maharashtra Youth Congress General Secretary Akshay Jain, who stated that while they are not opposed to pub culture or nightlife, they strongly condemn such acts as “cheap publicity.”
“We are not against the pub culture or nightlife but we are against this kind of cheap publicity. We have made a complaint to the Pune police commissioner and hope this kind of cheap publicity stunt doesn’t happen again in the city. In recent times, we saw the cases of drugs and other illegal activities has risen,” Jain said.
Jain stated that such actions should be condemned, and strict measures must be taken against those responsible.