Over 5,400L illegal liquor seized in state since April 1

The State Excise Department has registered 103 cases of illegal liquor during the current financial year, seizing a total of 5,438.771 bulk litres from various districts. Additionally, around 18,743 litres of lahan-a raw material used in illicit liquor production-were destroyed during this period.

Excise Commissioner Yunus stated that special teams have been constituted at the headquarters level to curb illegal liquor activities. "These teams recently raided a unit in Solan where a significant shortfall in the stock of Extra Neutral Alcohol (ENA) was found. Illegal holograms and labels were also recovered from the premises. An FIR has been registered, and further action is being taken under the Himachal Pradesh Excise Act," he said.

In another case in Sirmaur district, an FIR was filed against a licensee for manufacturing liquor using illegal labels and holograms. Major discrepancies were also found in the stock of spirit and liquor.

Yunus added that the department has intensified its statewide crackdown on the illegal liquor trade. In Chamba district, liquor smuggled from Chandigarh was seized, while illegal beer was intercepted in Una and Bilaspur districts. Similar enforcement actions have been taken in Mandi, Shimla, and Kullu after inspections at multiple locations.

The Commissioner emphasised that strict surveillance and stringent action will continue against offenders. He urged the public to report any illegal liquor activity via the department's helpline (0177-2620426), WhatsApp (94183-31426) or Zonal Offices: Southern Zone — 0177-2620426, Northern Zone —01894-230186, Central Zone — 01905-223499.