In a major pro-business reform, the Delhi government has scrapped the requirement for a “police licence” for seven categories of business establishments, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced on Monday. Entrepreneurs operating in these sectors will now only need permissions from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), or the Delhi Cantonment Board.
The categories exempted from the police licensing process include:
- Swimming Pools
- Eating Houses
- Hotel-Motels
- Discotheques
- Guest Houses
- Video Game Parlours
- Amusement Parks
Addressing the media, CM Rekha Gupta termed this a “historic public welfare order” aimed at simplifying procedures, saving entrepreneurs both time and money, and enhancing the ease of doing business in the capital.
“This decision will reduce red-tapism and give a big boost to ease of doing business in Delhi. Now, only the permission of MCD, NDMC, or Delhi Cantonment Board will be required. The police can now fully focus on law and order and public safety instead of licensing formalities,” said the Chief Minister.
She also stressed that the licensing process will become more transparent and accountable, as the entire procedure will now function under a single-window system.
The move was hailed by business bodies as a long-pending demand fulfilled, with CM Gupta reiterating the BJP’s commitment to building a liberal and supportive environment for businesses in Delhi, in line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“Under PM Modi’s leadership, our party is working to make Delhi a business-friendly destination. This decision marks a step forward in that direction,” Gupta added.
The announcement is expected to bring relief to thousands of small and medium enterprises across the capital by reducing bureaucratic hurdles and operational costs.