Karnataka CM Asks World Cup Fans to Stay Calm as Hotels Get Late-night Nod

Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Sunday appealed to football fans to be patient and maintain peace while watching the FIFA World Cup final. He said that in order to facilitate live screening of the match, the government has given special permission for hotels and restaurants to remain open until 3.30 am.

Responding to the demands of the youth, the state government has allowed hotels and restaurants to operate beyond normal closing hours so that fans can watch the final, he told reporters at Vidhana Soudha.

Shivakumar said, “The police have installed cameras at various places. No matter who wins, young people should not lose their patience. They should watch the football match in peace.” he said.

The CM also reviewed the preparedness of the state against the emerging drought situation and said that ministers, Deputy Commissioners and police personnel should work day and night.

“There are no Sundays or holidays for Ministers, Deputy Commissioners or the police. They have to work 24 hours a day. Therefore, we are holding a video conference with the Deputy Commissioners and Chief Executive Officers to review the drought situation preparedness,” he said.

Shivakumar added that the government has already made arrangements to provide Rs one crore to each taluka to ensure availability of drinking water.