In a disturbing case of alleged negligence and illegal liquor service, HOPS Kitchen & Bar (operating under the name All Spice Kitchen & Bar) in Lokhandwala, Andheri (West), has come under serious scrutiny after two young girls were reportedly served alcohol despite being underage.
According to preliminary information, the incident took place late on Thursday night when two girls, aged 16 and 21, visited the popular suburban establishment. Sources allege that the bar staff served them vodka without verifying their age or identity proof.
Shortly after consuming the drinks, both girls began feeling unwell and were immediately rushed to Cooper Hospital for medical attention. The hospital authorities later confirmed that the girls were under the influence of alcohol at the time of admission.
While the identities of the victims have been withheld for their protection, sources have referred to them under changed names — Neha (16) and Nisha (21).
The matter falls under the jurisdiction of Oshiwara Police Station, which is expected to initiate a detailed probe into the establishment’s alleged violation of excise laws and its failure to ensure responsible service of alcohol.
Residents and activists from the Lokhandwala area have expressed outrage over the incident, demanding immediate action against the restaurant-bar’s management. “It’s shocking that such negligence continues unchecked. Serving alcohol to minors is not only illegal but life-threatening,” said a local resident.
Authorities are being urged to verify the bar’s licensing, CCTV footage, and staff involvement to ensure accountability. If proven guilty, the management may face serious legal consequences under sections of the Bombay Prohibition Act and relevant Juvenile Protection Laws.
The incident has once again raised concerns about the increasing number of bars and pubs in Mumbai’s suburbs allegedly flouting age-verification norms for profit, endangering the safety of young patrons.
