A directive linked to the Election Commission of India (ECI) has led to the closure of more than 400 eateries across Kolkata ahead of polling on April 29.
The rule mandates that all business establishments within a 100-metre radius of polling stations remain shut on election day, and in some cases, even a day prior.
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Officials said the duration of closure varies depending on factors such as the sensitivity of the constituency, the specific polling station, and the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and polling personnel.
Businesses face losses and disruption
For many restaurant owners, the sudden closures have meant operational losses and wastage. Manish Singh, owner of Balwant Singh Dhaba, said Central forces instructed them to shut early. "We are closed since 9 pm on April 27 and would remain closed on April 28 and 29," he was quoted as saying by The Times of India.
He added, "We have not witnessed this earlier. A lot of eateries are also closed here along with ours. There will be a lot of wastage as we had a lot of raw materials."
Several prominent restaurant chains are also affected. Debaditya Chowdhary, managing director of Chowman and Oudh 1590, said two outlets fall within the restricted zone.
"We have an Oudh in Vivekananda Park and one Chowman in Sodepur. Both will stay shut on election day," he told TOI, adding that operations continued normally on April 28.
At Aminia, director Kabir Azhar noted that one outlet at Chinar Park would remain closed during polling hours. "We are operating today as usual," he told TOI.
Clubs shut amid staff shortage
Apart from the 100-metre rule, several heritage clubs and restaurants will also remain closed due to staff shortages and reduced footfall.
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Calcutta Rowing Club secretary Chandan Roychowdhury told TOI, "There would hardly be any staff. All the city clubs will remain closed."
Similarly, International Club secretary Jayajit Biswas told TOI that the club would shut for two days, citing staff constraints and the closure of bar services.
The rule has brought business activity in several parts of the city to a halt, particularly in areas located close to polling stations.
