Karnataka has ordered pubs, bars, clubs and restaurants to strictly verify age before allowing entry or serving alcohol, citing alarming data on alcohol and tobacco use among Bengaluru's youth.
Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has announced stringent new measures aimed at curbing underage drinking, directing all liquor-serving establishments to implement mandatory age verification before allowing entry or serving alcohol.
The order, issued by Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge, applies to pubs, bars, clubs, restaurants and lounges across the state. Authorities have warned that any establishment found serving alcohol to minors could face strict legal action, with owners, managers, licence holders and event organisers being held accountable for violations.
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The move follows growing concern over rising alcohol and tobacco use among adolescents and young adults, particularly in Bengaluru.
Study raises alarm over youth alcohol consumption
The government's decision was prompted by findings from a study conducted among 4,093 students from higher secondary schools, pre-university institutions and colleges across Bengaluru.
The research, carried out by teams from St John's Medical College, CHRIST University and Kasturba Medical College, found that one in three adolescents and young adults surveyed consumed alcohol.
According to the study, 33 per cent of respondents reported alcohol use, while nearly 18 per cent were addicted to tobacco. These figures are significantly higher than both national and state averages.
Researchers also found that the median age for first alcohol consumption was 17 years, while some participants reported beginning alcohol use as early as eight years old.
What the new rules require
Under the new directive, liquor-serving establishments must verify age through valid identification documents before granting entry and before serving alcohol.
Authorities have instructed venues to maintain functioning CCTV systems at entry points and preserve footage for a specified period to assist investigations when required.
Police have been told to treat underage drinking not merely as a licensing violation but as a broader public health and youth protection issue.
Wider effort to protect young people
The state government plans to involve educational institutions, parents, resident welfare associations and community groups in efforts to prevent exposure to alcohol, tobacco and narcotics among minors.
Officials believe stricter enforcement is necessary as Bengaluru continues to witness growing nightlife activity and easier access to alcohol among younger age groups.
Government adopts zero-tolerance approach
Announcing the measures, Priyank Kharge said commercial establishments must not place profits above the welfare of young people.
He stressed that Karnataka would adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards businesses that facilitate or encourage underage drinking.
"The rule is simple: no ID, no entry," Kharge said, urging parents, educators, citizens and business owners to work together in protecting children and adolescents from substance abuse.
The latest move marks one of Karnataka's strongest efforts yet to address underage alcohol consumption, reflecting broader concerns about youth health, addiction risks and long-term public welfare.
Published: 08 Jun 2026, 09:01 pm IST
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