Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Strict action against illegal liquor sale; Cases filed against 1,925 alcoholics

A big blow has been dealt to those who indulge in illegal liquor in dhabas and hotels in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. As many as 1,716 cases have been registered in the last year in a special campaign launched by the State Excise Department against illegal liquor consumption and sale. As a result, 1,925 alcoholics have had to appear in court and cases have been filed against them in the court.

Many businessmen were selling liquor in their hotels and dhabas without obtaining government licenses. This was a particular problem in Beed Bypass, Chikalthana, Cambridge area, Jalta Phata and rural areas. After it was noticed that customers were bringing liquor from outside and drinking it in the hotels, the department took action.

During the operation, the case was stopped by taking action only against the manager and waiter. However, in the last three years, the department changed its policy and started filing cases directly against dhabas and hotel owners. Due to this, many businessmen turned to obtaining valid licenses, which increased the government's revenue. In March and April 2025 alone, 187 dhabas were raided, while 6 hand-made distillery operators were arrested. The department also took strict action against those who manufactured fake and harmful liquor.

After the case is registered, the concerned are issued a notice to appear in court. Here, a fine can be imposed starting from a minimum of ₹10, and the final amount is decided by the court. “No one is allowed to sell or consume alcohol anywhere. In the last three years, we have tried to control this problem. Businessmen should do business only with a valid license,” made a clear appeal, Santosh Zagade, Superintendent of the State Excise Department.

Strict action is now being taken against those involved in illegal liquor sales and public consumption in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and those involved in illegal businesses will no longer be forgiven. The strict campaign of the department is creating discipline in the district, and there is also a positive increase in revenue.