The Barak Valley Hotel and Restaurant Association has called for strict action against illegal restaurants, pubs, and highway dhabas allegedly operating across Cachar district without mandatory licences and safety clearances. Addressing a press conference at a hotel in Silchar, members of the association highlighted that several establishments are functioning without valid trade licences, bar licences, food safety certificates, and fire safety clearances. This has resulted in significant revenue losses to the government through unpaid GST, excise duty, and other taxes.
Unfair Competition and Revenue Loss
The association claimed that while legally operated hotels and restaurants pay 6% VAT on liquor sales and comply with statutory regulations, many unauthorised establishments evade taxes altogether. It further alleged that workers employed at such outlets are deprived of regular wages, health insurance, and other legal benefits. Mulchand Baid, a member of the association, stated, “Licensed businesses incur heavy expenditure to obtain permits, pay taxes, and ensure employee welfare, whereas illegal operators continue to function without adhering to rules, leading to unfair competition and affecting the district’s business environment.”
Public Safety Concerns
The association also expressed concern over the mushrooming of such unauthorised establishments, which they claim is contributing to incidents of drunken brawls, road accidents, violence, and eve-teasing. These activities pose a threat to public safety and social order in the region. Baid urged the district administration and other relevant authorities to launch drives against these illegal establishments and take exemplary action against violators.
Call for Immediate Action
The association has demanded that the administration conduct regular inspections and enforce strict penalties on those operating without proper licences. They emphasised that such measures are essential to ensure a level playing field for law-abiding businesses and to protect the interests of employees and the public. The association also called for greater awareness among consumers about the risks of patronising unlicensed establishments.
