Pune/IBNS: A Pune pub has drawn backlash and a police complaint by the Congress for sending 'goody-bags' with condoms and packets of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) to select invitees for the New Year's celebration, media reports said.

Police confirmed that the High Spirits pub sent an advisory asking to wear helmets, keep themselves hydrated and avoid drink-and-drive.

"Along with this advisory, the pub management has also sent some helmets to its selected invitees and a goody bag which included a pack of condoms.

"This was sent to around 40 guests who are regular to the pub and were expected to attend the New Year party," senior police inspector Nilkanth Jagtap at Mundhwa Police Station said as quoted by The Times of India.

The incident came to the light after one of the invitees uploaded a picture of the gift pack on social media.

Slamming the pub, Maharashtra Pradesh Youth Congress leader Akshay Jain said as quoted by India Today, "We are not against pubs and nightlife. However, the marketing strategy to attract youngsters is against the traditions of Pune city. We demand strict action by the police against the pub management."

"Such actions risk sending the wrong message to the youth, potentially fostering misunderstandings and encouraging inappropriate habits in society," he added.

Police have initiated a probe into the incident and the pub management has been quizzed already.

The pub has claimed the items were distributed aiming to create awareness among youth and promote safety.