Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet
Shimla, March 9,
The Himachal Pradesh State Tax and Excise Department has claimed to be taking stringent measures against the illegal liquor trade across the state. According to State Tax and Excise Commissioner Dr. Yunus, various teams have been actively conducting operations, leading to significant seizures and legal actions.
As per department data, during the financial year 2024-25, up to February 2025, authorities confiscated 1,23,940 bulk liters of illicit liquor and destroyed 4,41,918 bulk liters of lahan (a raw material used for producing illegal alcohol). Even though the total quantum of illecit liquor trade per annum remains unknown but so far, 754 cases related to illegal liquor and lahan have been registered this fiscal year.
Highlighting a recent operation, Dr. Yunus stated that a special checking team in Excise District Nurpur intercepted a Bolero pickup truck near Bajira. Upon inspection, the vehicle was found carrying 72 crates of unauthorized liquor without valid documentation. Legal action was initiated under the Himachal Pradesh Excise Act, 2011.
In another incident on February 24, 2025, a routine inspection near the excise barrier at Garamoda in Bilaspur district led to the seizure of 300 crates (2,340 bulk liters) of beer without proper paperwork. The consignment, transported from Kiratpur Sahib in Punjab, bore labels indicating it was meant for sale only in Punjab. This too resulted in action as per the state’s excise regulations.
During February 2025 alone, the department reported seizing 5,126 bulk liters of illegal liquor from various districts, with Solan accounting for 1,250 bulk liters and Bilaspur 2,342 bulk liters.
Dr. Yunus asserted that the department plans to intensify its crackdown on the illicit liquor trade by strengthening intelligence networks and enhancing coordination with other agencies. He also urged the public to report any suspicious activities related to illegal liquor via the department’s helpline and WhatsApp number (94183-31426) or by email at controlroomhq@gmail.com.
The excise department maintains that citizen cooperation will play a crucial role in curbing such illegal activities and ensuring lawful trade across the state.
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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
