Fire safety violations: BBMP issues notice to Virat Kohli’s One8 Commune Bar & Restaurant

Bengaluru: The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has issued a notice to One8 Commune Bar & Restaurant, co-owned by former Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli, for failing to implement fire safety measures and obtain a fire department certificate, thus violating legal regulations.

The BBMP issued the notice a week ago after it was brought to their attention that the establishment had not installed fire safety equipment or secured certification from the fire department. However, no response has been received from the restaurant’s management. According to BBMP sources, if no reply is submitted by Monday, another notice will be issued. Failure to respond to the second notice could lead to legal action.

BBMP Chief Commissioner’s Statement

BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Girinath addressed the issue, saying, “When we issue notices for legal violations in bars and restaurants, we do not consider ownership. We act based on the registered license holder. Notices are issued accordingly.”

The restaurant operates in a building located opposite the Mahatma Gandhi statue on MG Road. The BBMP stated that the restaurant’s management has filed an appeal against the notice, which has currently been stayed. “If the appeal is rejected, we will take the necessary steps to demolish the structure. If it is accepted, we will proceed according to the directives issued in the appeal order,” Girinath added.

History of Notices

Social activist Venkatesh had previously lodged a complaint with the BBMP about the establishment. Based on the complaint, officials from the Shanthinagar division had issued a notice earlier. Despite this, the restaurant management reportedly ignored the notice and failed to comply, leading to the latest action.

The BBMP has reiterated its commitment to enforcing regulations uniformly and taking necessary action if violations persist.