Sir,

The fire that broke out at a popular pub yesterday has raised concerns about safety standards and disregard for rules and regulations. This incident also brings forth another issue: Students’ safety.

In recent times, it is very common, especially in the afternoons, to see groups of school students, still in their uniforms, sitting inside bars and restaurants where they are seen  openly consuming alcohol and smoking cigarettes.

What is even more alarming is that cigarettes are listed on the menu and there is no effort by the staff of establishments to verify the age of those being served.

These incidents point to a deeper issue in Mysuru’s evolving drinking culture. While I am not against adults enjoying a night out, I have serious concerns about the safety of our children who are being allowed to consume alcohol and tobacco illegally.

We must ask: Where is the responsibility? Where is the system ensuring that these businesses protect our children?

Why is all this happening in the first place? Is it the influence of social media? Is it that today’s parents are giving too much freedom, with little guidance on boundaries?

Or is it that this younger generation, Gen Z, is struggling to grasp the real meaning of freedom, thinking it means no limits, rather than responsibility?

Whatever the cause, it is clear we need to pause and rethink how we guide and protect our youth in this changing world where bars and restaurants do not care for ‘age check’ before serving children.

It is time for the city and its authorities to step up. We need stronger age checks, clear accountability and a renewed focus on the safety and well-being of our future generations.

If we don’t act now, we risk letting a dangerous culture take root. Especially at a time when every other day we hear news of ganja and chemical drugs being seized in the city.

— M.R. Srividya, CEO – Lead Training and Corporate Solutions

Mysuru

16.6.2026