Darjeeling, 10th December: In the middle of the peak winter tourist season, the excise department has ordered the closure of the popular Glenary’s bar in Darjeeling for a period of three months. The bar was officially shut down from Tuesday following alleged violations of excise regulations.
Glenary’s is one of the most iconic establishments in Darjeeling and a major attraction for tourists, especially during the winter months. Every evening, the bar usually witnesses a heavy rush of visitors, with music arranged for their entertainment. The sudden closure has come as a surprise to many tourists as well as local residents.
According to official sources, the action was taken after allegations surfaced that the establishment had violated provisions of the excise law. Based on these allegations, the authorities ordered the immediate closure of the bar for three months.
The Glenary’s management has denied any wrongdoing and claimed that the bar was being operated in full compliance with all existing rules and regulations.
Excise department sources, however, stated that the bar did not have the necessary permission to conduct music performances, which led the department to initiate strict action.
It is significant to note that Glenary’s is owned by Ajoy Edwards, a prominent political figure in the hills. He is the founder and a key leader of the Indian Gorkha Janshakti Front. Recently, he had inaugurated a new bridge in Darjeeling and named it “Gorkhaland”.
Following the closure of the bar, Ajay Edward and leaders of his party alleged that the action was politically targeted. The administration, however, has firmly maintained that the decision is purely based on legal grounds and due process.