Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Wednesday said the state government will make arrangements to drop “heavily drunk” people to their homes during New Year’s Eve celebrations to prevent mishaps
and ensure public safety.
While speaking to reporters, the Home Minister said the government has set up 15 locations where people can rest until their intoxication subsides. However, he clarified that not everyone who consumes alcohol will be dropped home.
“We will not drop everyone off at home. Those who have drunk heavily, who are unable to walk, and who have reached a state of losing consciousness will be taken. We have set up resting places at 15 locations. They will be kept there until the intoxication wears off and then sent back,” he said as quoted by news agency ANI.
Wishing You All a Very Happy New Year 2026!
I extend my warm New Year wishes to everyone—especially to all Bengalurians and the people of Karnataka. As we welcome the New Year 2026, let us celebrate with joy, care, and responsibility.
This year, the Bengaluru Police have… pic.twitter.com/92tVGrEKOZ
— Dr. G Parameshwara (@DrParameshwara) December 31, 2025
Parameshwara noted that incidents of public intoxication are most common in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi, Belagavi, and Mangaluru, where large crowds gather on New Year’s Eve. Bengaluru Police will provide the drop facility during the celebrations.
Addressing women’s safety, Parameshwara said special precautionary measures have been taken. “Especially in the case of women, it is difficult to say what condition they may be in at that time. Some may be in a state of losing consciousness. Anything can happen at that moment. That is why we have made arrangements and taken precautionary measures. We must ensure that others do not misuse the situation. For this reason, we have put all 30 districts on alert,” he said.
He added that instructions have been issued to bars and pubs, and that the government is paying close attention to crowd management to avoid pushing and jostling in busy areas. “In cities like Bengaluru, many people come from outside the state. When large crowds gather, there can be chaos. That is why we are paying extra attention,” he said.
On drink-and-drive cases, the Home Minister said police have identified 160 checking points and will take strict action against offenders. He also said police personnel have been instructed to wear body cameras connected to the command centre.
“When large crowds gather, we have to look at it from every angle, even from a terrorist angle. Police will take action accordingly, and additional force will be deployed if required,” he added.
Earlier in the day, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said that extensive security arrangements have been made in Bengaluru for New Year’s Eve. In a post on X, he said over 20,000 police personnel, supported by specialised women squads, have been deployed across the city.
“Bengaluru is all set to welcome 2026 with safety and smooth celebrations. Modern technology will monitor crowds and traffic, and measures are in place to prevent unsafe driving and other risks,” Shivakumar said.
(With inputs from ANI)
