Retailers, mall owners at loggerheads over Maharashtra govt's 24X7 policy

Many say they will need to study the feasibility of the exercise before implementation

Mumbaikars may not get to fully experience a vibrant nightlife next week as differences emerge between retailers and mall owners over implementation of the ‘24 hours’ retail policy. Mills and malls will be the first to take off as part of the Maharashtra government’s ambitious Mumbai ‘24X7’ initiative, which will begin on Monday. The policy envisages putting Mumbai on the global map in terms of night life, akin to other cities in the world.

While food and beverage operators are excited, including names such as Amit Jatia, vice-chairman, Westlife Development and Riyaaz Amlani, chief executive officer (CEO), Impresario Entertainment and Hospitality,