Agartala, Sept 10: A day after Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha ordered a probe into the controversy surrounding the opening of a night club named ‘Happiest Hour’ in Agartala, Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy clarified that the government had not granted any permission to operate a night club or pub in the capital city.
In a telephonic interview with a reputed cable TV channel, the Minister explained that the license was specifically issued to run a restaurant-cum-bar, not a night club. “The proposal was placed before the District Magistrate and after due examination, permission was granted. But no approval was given from the government’s end to start a night club in its true sense and form,” he said.
Roy further highlighted that the permission letter clearly outlined restrictions on the use of the premises. “High-decibel sound systems, DJ sets, or anything that could disturb residents in the vicinity are strictly barred. Once the Chief Minister’s attention was drawn to the issue, he ordered a probe, and the report will clarify everything,” he added.
The controversy began immediately after the facility opened, with citizens objecting to its location near the Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan, a cultural hub of the city. Some also questioned the legality of the establishment, alleging it violated a High Court order. The building housing the club was earlier owned by a chit fund company and, after its closure following a SEBI crackdown, was handed over to the government strictly for official use. Critics argued that allowing a private recreational facility there contradicted the court’s directive.
Meanwhile, the Excise Department has served a show-cause notice to the club owner, pointing out that the bar license mandated operating hours only between 11 a.m. and 11 p.m.
