Ahead of Elections, Pune Excise Department Registers 923 Cases, Seizes ₹3.51 Crore Worth of Illicit Alcohol

Crackdown on Illicit Liquor in Pune: 923 Cases Registered, Over ₹3.5 Crore Worth of Illegal Alcohol Seized Ahead of Elections

Ahead of the much-anticipated Assembly elections in Maharashtra, the state excise department has launched a sweeping operation targeting the illegal liquor trade in Pune district. Between October 1 and November 6, authorities have taken significant action, registering 923 cases and making 843 arrests related to the illicit sale and distribution of alcohol. This crackdown is aimed at ensuring free and fair elections by preventing the misuse of illegal liquor, which could potentially influence voter behavior.

In the course of this month-long operation, excise officials have confiscated a staggering ₹3.51 crore worth of banned and unlicensed liquor. A total of 96 vehicles involved in the illegal transportation of alcohol have also been impounded, along with a variety of assets linked to illicit alcohol networks. Among the seized goods, Goa-manufactured liquor worth ₹3.64 lakh has also been taken off the market.

The excise department is operating under the stringent provisions of the Maharashtra Prohibition Act, 1949, and has placed particular emphasis on targeting both the production and distribution channels of illegal liquor. Special teams have been mobilized to inspect vehicles, check the sale of alcohol, and ensure that no one is attempting to illegally sway voters with alcohol bribes.

This crackdown comes as part of the state government’s larger strategy to safeguard the electoral process from any forms of manipulation, including the use of alcohol to influence voters. With the upcoming elections around the corner, the excise department has made it clear that any attempts to distribute illicit liquor will be dealt with severely.

To ensure compliance with these measures, licensed liquor shops are also being closely monitored, with authorities keeping a vigilant eye on business hours and alcohol sales. Special attention is being given to prevent underage drinking and ensure that all establishments are adhering to the rules.

In addition to the local law enforcement, authorities have established 18 temporary checkposts throughout the district. These checkposts serve as key points for intercepting illegal alcohol shipments and ensuring that banned liquor doesn’t make its way into the market in the lead-up to the elections.

The excise department is also urging the public to come forward and report any instances of illegal liquor manufacture, sale, or transportation. To assist in this effort, a toll-free number (18002339999) and a dedicated phone line at the Superintendent Office (020-26127321) have been set up for citizens to lodge complaints anonymously. This has been a crucial part of the operation, as local community participation is key in cracking down on illegal activities.

In line with the state’s commitment to conducting transparent and fair elections, Pune will observe dry days in the lead-up to voting and on the day of counting. From 6 pm on November 18 until the completion of voting on November 20, and on the day of the vote count, November 23, the sale of alcohol will be prohibited throughout the district. This move is designed to maintain order and prevent any last-minute attempts to influence voters during this critical period.

The operation is being conducted under the strong leadership of Dr. Vijay Suryavanshi, Commissioner of the State Excise Department, and Charan Singh Rajput, Superintendent of the Excise Department in Pune. Support is also provided by District Magistrate and District Election Officer Dr. Suhas Divase and Joint Commissioner Prasad Surve, all working in close coordination with local law enforcement and election authorities.

By aggressively tackling the issue of illegal alcohol distribution, the state excise department is sending a strong message: the integrity of the election process will not be compromised. Through combined efforts, Pune is poised to set a high standard in ensuring a fair and transparent election environment.

This intensive crackdown on illicit liquor not only highlights the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law but also serves as a reminder to all stakeholders about the importance of keeping elections free from external influences. With this robust strategy in place, authorities are confident that they can effectively control illegal alcohol distribution and ensure that voters make their decisions independently and without coercion.