Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh has appealed to the people of the state to welcome the New Year with peaceful and simplistic celebrations. Mr. Deshmukh stated that people should abide by the guidelines issued by the state government as the Covid -19 situation is still around.

He has made it clear that there are no restrictions on the movement of the people who wish to visit their friends, relatives at night but they should follow the guidelines issued by the government for preventing overcrowding and maintaining social distance. Similar instructions have been given to the administrations at tourist destinations in the state. 

Maharashtra's Home Minister Anil Deshmukh has said that all the commissioners and superintendents of police in the state have been directed to strictly implement the instructions regarding night curfew and preventing mass gatherings in the state.

 
According to the state government's SOPs, hotels, restaurants, pubs, and bars have been allowed to remain open till 11 pm. The state has imposed a night curfew; hence gathering of more than five people in public places is strictly prohibited. Deshmukh stated that people visiting hill stations during these days should strictly follow social distancing and avoid huge crowds at famous tourist spots. The Minister stated that instructions have been given to the superintendents of police to abide by the restrictions even at such places. Booking boats, banquet halls, etc for parties on December 31st night is not permitted. 

Along with passenger limits for traveling in private cars and on bikes after 11 pm, the police will also ensure no one is driving drunk, overspeeding, or indulging in any unruly behavior. Essential services, however, will continue as always and delivery of food by food delivery platforms as well as directly from restaurants will be allowed.