Do women feel safe at bars in Mumbai?

Niyati Singh has spent most of the last decade socialising in bars in Mumbai and Delhi not only enjoying good food and drink but also exploring the music scene in both cities. Being a regular, she has made an observation. She explains, "I didn't realise how safe Mumbai was, especially the bar scene until I lived in other cities."

Even as she has had better experiences, the Mumbaikar believes that bar owners and bartenders should keep a drink count. "While you have security, bartenders should start keeping a tab or count on "red-flagged" people. This way, they can refuse to serve drinks to those who have hit their limits, avoiding any unwanted crisis or rude behaviour, and this shouldn't be restricted to a particular gender."

As bars in Mumbai and Pune have recently been under scrutiny for accidents that were reportedly beyond their control, it not only highlights the need to revisit security on how underage individuals get entry into bars, but also the safety of women in bars, and the general culture surrounding bars today. In May, three drunk women were arrested for assaulting a police officer in Virar. In June, bouncers allegedly bashed up college students over a spilled drink in Bandra.

While these are isolated events happening within one month of each other, it begs the age-old question - do women feel safe in bars in Mumbai? Ask Singh and she quickly says, "I have had a few incidents of not-so-pleasant encounters where a cordial head nod to some random compliment led to a sudden aggressive behaviour, but before I could even grasp the intensity of the situation, I was pulled out of it towards safety by strangers around me." While it was only one of the experiences, over time, she has got help on most occasions. "The authorities are alert with their responses when someone is creeping around a woman in a bar. Even the locals and bar hoppers are looking out for you. You feel like a part of a community where the safety of a woman is an unspoken rule," she adds.

Another Mumbaikar, who wishes to remain anonymous, says they were a late bloomer when it came to the bar culture because it was a self-exploration for them. They share, "I've been to various types of bars -- from shady bars to upscale pubs and bars. I can't recall a single instance where I felt unsafe during my outings. Perhaps, a solo bar outing may be a different experience." The fact that she was in the company of friends and colleagues, may have been a reason. Even at such times, the Mumbaikar says she never felt uncomfortable, was stared at or had an uncomfortable experience.

Being a regular to one of the establishments in fact, gave her a sense of security, as they knew her and that directly translated to her feeling safe. However, there is always a first time, even if one doesn't anticipate it.

Security and safety at restaurants

With restaurants and bars being in the centre of it all, this writer approached quite a few bars across Mumbai to know more about their safety measures, unfortunately, many declined to comment on it.

However, others have implemented measures, and Karan Nohria, founder of Oh So Silly! Bombay in Khar is one of them. He explains, "We have a dedicated team of staff who are trained to handle situations discreetly and effectively. Our security personnel are always vigilant, and we have surveillance cameras installed throughout the premises. Additionally, we maintain a strict policy against harassment and take immediate action if any issues arise. We've implemented a 'safe space' policy where women can approach any staff member if they feel uncomfortable."

He says women can approach the bar or any other staff members. The staff are trained to discreetly alert the managers to assist women in need. They can also directly speak to any of our security personnel stationed around the venue, he adds. It is especially important to put such measures in place because it could save many from not only being teased but also physical assault.

However, does admit that even though the measures are in place, there are challenges. "One of the biggest challenges is ensuring continuous staff training and awareness," he says, continuing, "It is essential to stay updated with the best practices and emerging threats. Balancing a welcoming atmosphere with strict safety measures can also be tricky. Managing a large crowd while ensuring safety can be challenging. We often face resistance from patrons who don't understand the importance of certain measures. However, we remain firm in our policies to prioritise safety over convenience."

While Mumbai is a party hub, Goa being a tourist destination is known for its party culture, which means the chances of women having different untoward experiences are also high. At Yazu, which is situated in Candolim, known for its long partying hours, Shitij Harnwall, the manager says even they host training sessions. "They are organised for all personnel on how to handle as well as prevent different forms of harassment or other issues dealing with personal security. All safety issues have clear and immediate action protocols."

So, what does a lady have to do to let the authorities know at the restaurant? He states, "Any lady who feels insecure should introduce herself loudly because immediate assistance would come from any member of staff trained just for this specific purpose. We have special areas where guards are always on duty in case an individual does not feel secure."

Staying alert while making drinks

Beyond the interactions, there is also the danger of something being slipped into the drink. The possibility is higher if you are not seated at a table with friends, as you have to resort to sitting on the bar stool and may be unaware of people who may just slip something into the drink. Keeping this in mind, Harnwall says they do make the drinks under the watchful eye of the diner. "Our bartenders have been coached not only to watch suspicious behaviour but also to never leave their bottles behind."

However, there are challenges. "Conducting constant training sessions for workers on how they can properly react during such events amongst other patrons knowing about our precautions and following them is one of them," he adds.

Nohria has also put measures in place for that. "We keep a close watch on the preparation and serving of drinks. Our bartenders are trained to never leave a drink unattended. Our staff regularly patrols the bar area to ensure no suspicious activity occurs. All drinks are prepared in view of the customer, and we encourage patrons to watch their drinks being made. We also provide drink covers and keep reminding customers to keep an eye on their drinks."

Seeing through fake IDs and underage drinking

With Pune's rash driving case shedding light on the dangers of underage drinking and driving, local authorities have tightened the noose around restaurants and bars. While restaurants and bars say there is only so much, they can do, none are taking it lightly. With fake IDs rife, Nohria shares, "We have a strict ID verification process at the entrance. Our staff is trained to spot fake IDs, and we use age-verification technology to assist in this process. We also conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with our policies." The restaurant has also collaborated with local authorities to stay updated on the latest trends in fake IDs and underage drinking. "Additionally, we have a zero-tolerance policy for any staff who fail to follow these procedures," he adds.

It is no different in Goa, as Harnwall says, "Our policy is strictly based on checking identification cards during alcohol orders in bars and this fact is emphasised so much by all employees including bartenders who know fakes from real IDs very well as well as anyone else without proper documents will not be served any alcohol in any establishments unless it has been digitally registered."

Also Read: Are restaurants in Bandra West influencing the soaring real estate prices?