Lax Quality Checks in Delhi Liquor Supply Under Scrutiny

The CAG report reveals that several liquor wholesalers in Delhi failed to submit mandatory quality tests, defying BIS norms. Key issues were omission of reports on harmful ingredients and use of non-NABL certified labs. The irregularities in the excise policy have sparked a political controversy.

A recent report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India highlights significant lapses in the quality control of liquor supplied in Delhi. Several wholesalers have been found negligent, failing to submit necessary quality tests mandated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

The report scrutinized the excise policy of the Aam Aadmi Party's previous government, noting that in over half of the test cases for foreign liquor, reports were outdated or altogether missing. Wholesalers bypassed crucial checks on water quality and harmful ingredients, raising health concerns.

Alarmingly, these reports, some issued by non-NABL accredited labs, violate Food Safety Standards. The excise department's inability to enforce stringent quality checks has resulted in political turmoil, with the BJP calling for accountability and several AAP leaders facing legal action.