Punjab Excise Department Enforces Zero-Tolerance Policy on Illegal Liquor Sales in Mohali
The Punjab excise department has issued a stern warning to hotel, restaurant, and bar owners in Mohali, strictly prohibiting the service or sale of liquor sourced from outside the state. Officials have emphasized that any establishment found with liquor intended for sale in other states will face severe legal consequences, including the potential cancellation of their operating licences.
Zero-Tolerance Stance to Protect State Revenue
Assistant Commissioner of Excise for the Ropar range, Ashok Chalhotra, stated that the department has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against the illegal sale of liquor, as it directly impacts the state's revenue streams. He made it unequivocally clear that all liquor served in hotels, restaurants, and bars within Punjab must be purchased exclusively from authorised vendors located within the state.
Recent Raid Uncovers Violations in Kharar
Chalhotra highlighted a recent excise department raid conducted at an establishment in Kharar, where liquor labelled "for sale in Chandigarh only" was recovered. Preliminary investigations revealed that this liquor was not authorised for sale in Punjab and was allegedly being served illegally at the venue.
Ongoing Investigation to Trace Supply Chain
The department has launched a detailed investigation to identify the source of the illicit liquor and the individuals involved in its supply chain. Officials are actively gathering information about a Chandigarh-based liquor contractor from whom the stock was allegedly procured, aiming to uncover the full extent of the illegal operation.
Strict Compliance Demanded from All Operators
The assistant commissioner issued a final warning to all hotel, restaurant, and bar operators in Mohali district, urging them to strictly adhere to the regulations and purchase liquor only from authorised sources. Failure to comply will result in stringent actions as part of the department's ongoing crackdown to safeguard state interests and ensure legal compliance in the liquor trade.
