Excise Department Cracks Down on Illicit Liquor Trade in the State

The Excise department has ramped up its efforts to combat illegal liquor operations across the state. With 523 cases registered this year, over 21,637 liters of illicit liquor and 33,308 liters of 'lahan' have been seized. Crackdowns and team deployments intensify under Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu's directive.

The state's Excise department has intensified its crackdown against illicit liquor, reflecting a determined stance to curb illegal operations. Special teams are executing raids, and 523 cases have already been registered this financial year, states an official release. A significant 21,637 liters of illicit liquor and 33,308 liters of lahan have been seized since April in efforts to dismantle this unlawful industry.

The department's efforts last month saw the confiscation of 309 liters of illicit liquor and 12 liters of lahan in Shimla's southern region, 2,678 liters of illicit liquor and 14 liters of lahan in Mandi, and substantial quantities in Palampur. In Police District Baddi alone, 286 liters were seized, with similar actions taken in Kullu, Mandi, and Una. These moves follow direct orders from the government for legal action against offenders.

In a significant October operation, the department dismantled several illegal distilleries found in Milwan, Thakurdwara, Barota, Bela Ludacha, and Ulehriyan in Nurpur's Damtal area, destroying them post seizures. Under Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu's directive, 35 special teams are operational to counter smuggling. Excise Commissioner Yunus underlined the state's zero-tolerance policy and urged public cooperation via designated contact numbers to report illicit activities.

(With inputs from agencies.)