Defence ministry asks forces to skip New Year bashes

With the nation mourning the death of the 23-year-old gang-rape victim, the armed forces have been directed to skip New Year celebrations, the first such instance. The capital’s major clubs, famous for their New Year bashes, have also decided to welcome 2013 in a sombre fashion. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi have said they wouldn’t hold New Year festivities.

Defence Minister A K Antony, in consultation with the chiefs of the three armed forces, directed all units and formations not to hold any party on New Year’s eves to express solidarity with the grieving family and the citizens protesting crimes against women. On December 28, Antony had not celebrated his birthday, for the same reason.

The previous occasion the defence forces didn’t celebrate New Year was after the Kargil War in 1999. However, there was no official order from the defence ministry at that time.

This time, several hotels, too, aren’t keen on New Year parties in their premises, owing to police restrictions. “We had thought of something earlier. But this year, everyone wants to keep it a very low-key affair. So, we are not holding any festivity, especially for the New Year,” said Rajinder Kumar, director Vivanta by Taj, New Delhi.

Experts say this year, demand has fallen about 20 per cent due to the slowdown. But the demise of the rape victim and the resultant sombre mood in the city had a greater impact.

Several New Year party destinations in the capital, including the Gymkhana, Chelmsford and Constitution clubs, wouldn’t hold any special celebration this evening.

The Press Club of India, too, has dropped all plans for New Year revelries.

Some major luxury hotels in the capital are, however, set to host the usual treats, with disc jockeys (DJs) and special food & beverage deals. Taj Mahal, for instance, has arranged for “selected tunes by renowned DJs, live bands, popular lounge music and bouquet of special feasts.” The Claridges is hosting a bash at its vodka bar, Aura, for Rs 4,000 a person.