· Special attention on freebies: monitoring and deterrence measures in place
Shimla
Excise Commissioner Yunus revealed today that the State Tax and Excise Department has taken significant strides in curbing illegal liquor activities across various districts in the State. A total of 52,440 litres of illicit liquor have been seized in district Bilaspur, Nurpur, Kangra, Sirmaur, Mandi, Una, Chamba and Kullu. He said that to enforce strict actions against illegal liquor operations the department has also deployed 59 task force teams and flying squads throughout the state.
He said that a remarkable 240,438 litres of illicit liquor have been confiscated from different regions of the state since the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct in the state. These efforts carried out in collaboration with nodal officers from neighbouring states, have targeted illegal liquor businesses within border areas and the state itself.
Recently, the department uncovered and confiscated 100 boxes of country liquor unlawfully stored in Chamba district, invoking the provisions of the Excise Act, 2011, added the excise commissioner. Additionally, the South Zone Flying Squad intercepted 1,724 litres of liquor in Sirmaur district. Notably, joint operations with local law enforcement led to the destruction of 1200 litres of illicit liquor extraction facilities in Dhelti village of district Bilaspur, underscoring the commitment to eradicating such activities.
He said that recovery and destruction of 2,000 litres of Lahan in the Indora area coordinated efforts with Punjab Excise teams have been done. Similarly, the Excise team of Kangra district, in collaboration with the police, confiscated many boxes of illegally stored country liquor.
Yunus said that in light of the forthcoming elections in Himachal Pradesh, the department remains vigilant and is collaborating closely with border state excise officials and the Himachal Police to prevent any illegal activities related to liquor in the State. He said that the department maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal liquor operations, promising continued vigilance and stringent actions in the future.
He said that to further enhance public participation in curbing such activities, a dedicated control room has been established in the state which is ensuring round-the-clock surveillance. Apart from this the citizens are encouraged to report any instances of illegal liquor or freebies through toll-free number 18001808062, and telephone number 0177-2620426. Apart from this citizens can also contact in Whatsapp number 94183-31426 or online platform controlroomhq@gmail.com provided by the department.
Commissioner Yunus also reiterated the department’s unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.
