Madras HC Directs DGP to Share Order Allowing 24×7 Operations for Shops, Restaurants Across Tamil Nadu

Rapid Summary

• The Madras high Court directed the Tamil Nadu Director General of Police (DGP) and Greater Chennai commissioner of Police (GCCP) to inform all police stations about a Government Order (G.O.) issued on May 8, 2025.
• The G.O. permits shops and establishments employing over 10 people to remain open 24×7 throughout the year, effective from June 5, 2025.
• Conditions under this order include provisions for weekly holidays on a rotational basis, protection for women employees, and transportation arrangements for them.
• The direction was issued in response to a writ petition filed by the National restaurant Association of India (NRAI), which alleged that police were interfering with nighttime operations due to lack of awareness about the G.O.
• counsel for NRAI stated that similar permissions were initially granted through a G.O. in 2019 and renewed every three years since then.
• Tamil Nadu government’s advocate opposed part of NRAI’s request but did not contest the circulation requirement. Afterward, only the circulation directive sought by NRAI was accepted by Justice N. Sathish Kumar.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The court’s directive reinforces adherence to regulations governing commercial establishments in Tamil Nadu while addressing friction between businesses and law enforcement. By ensuring clarity on operative guidelines via dissemination at police stations, it seeks to reduce instances of arbitrary interruptions faced by business operators during nighttime hours.

The move highlights Tamil Nadu’s approach toward facilitating uninterrupted commercial activity under regulated conditions such as employee welfare measures-rotational weekly offs and secure accommodations or transportation for women staff-potentially boosting adaptability in retail/restaurant sectors statewide. However, continued monitoring will be vital to ensure both law enforcement compliance with G.O. provisions and adherence by businesses.

The decision underscores an evolving balance between maintaining public order at night while supporting economic activities crucially tied to extended operating hours.

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