Hotel Industry Announces Support for MP Arora in Bypoll

Ludhiana, May 2, 2025: The Hotel and Restaurant Association, Ludhiana (Punjab), held an interaction programme with Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora on Thursday evening, during which association leaders, including Amarvir Singh and Gurdip Singh Takkar, praised Arora for his “industry-friendly” approach.

The leaders expressed their gratitude to Arora for initiating the extension of operating hours for eateries across the city. Acting on his initiative, the Ludhiana Commissionerate Police allowed extended hours for restaurants, bars, and other eateries. According to the order, Category 1 eateries in restaurants and bars without Excise licenses L-3, L-4, or L-5 can operate until 2:00 AM. Establishments with these licenses, including hotels and bars, are also permitted to remain open until 2:00 AM, with the possibility of an extension until 3:00 AM if they meet the norms under the current Excise Policy.

Appreciating Arora’s prompt action, the association leaders said their demand had been pending for 10 years but was resolved within ten days after being brought to Arora’s notice. They announced their full support for Arora, who is contesting the Ludhiana (West) Assembly bypoll as the AAP candidate.

The leaders also informed Arora that while hotels in Punjab have been granted industry status, they are not receiving the associated benefits. In response, Arora assured them that he would take up the matter with the state government. He also promised to look into their demand for launching a One-Time Settlement (OTS) Scheme related to the approval of building plans for the hotel industry in Punjab.

Arora emphasised the significance of the hotel sector, stating, “The hotel industry is as vital as any other sector. The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to promoting all industries, recognising that industry is the backbone of a state’s economy.”

On the occasion, Arora also presented his three-year report card, highlighting projects that are either completed or nearing completion. These include the Halwara Airport, renovation and upgradation of the ESI and Civil Hospitals, construction of four bridges on the Sidhwan Canal, the cycle track and 700 parking slots under the elevated road, as well as various National Highway projects.

Arora thanked the association leaders for their unwavering support and trust in him.