M A I N   N E W S

Punjab ignores EC, orders auction of liquor vends
Jupinderjit Singh
Tribune News Service

Bathinda, March 14
The Punjab Excise and Taxation Department has announced the auction of liquor vends in the state on March 22 without getting the Election Commission's approval. The approval of the election authorities is mandatory for conducting such auctions when the model code of conduct is in force.

The EC is keeping a watch on the developments amid allegations that several politicians own liquor vends (directly or indirectly).

The excise department has in a statement announced auction in all districts through a draw of lots on March 22. It, however, does not mention the fact that the auction date is pending approval of the EC.

Chief Election Officer (Punjab) VK Singh said the excise department had not sought approval from the commission. "We are awaiting directions from the Chief Election Commissioner whether to allow or defer the process," he said.

YS Tiwana, Assistant Excise and Taxation Commissioner, said no such approval was required from the election authorities since auctioning of vends was an annual exercise.