Thane Excise Department Implements Stricter Measures to Curb Illicit Liquor Distribution Ahead of Elections
Thane, 21st April 2024: In an effort to combat the illicit distribution of freebies, including alcohol, ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, the excise department in Thane district has implemented stringent measures. All liquor vendors and manufacturers are now required to install closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras at their establishments, with a specific focus on delivery points and sales counters.
Additionally, these establishments must maintain daily records of sales and closing stock, uploading the data to a designated website on a daily basis. Any unusual spikes in sales or discrepancies in stock levels will be promptly reported to the Election Commission (EC) for further investigation. These measures align with EC guidelines aimed at regulating and controlling the movement of goods to prevent any attempts to influence voters with liquor. The voting process for the Thane Lok Sabha seat is slated for the fifth phase on May 20.
In tandem with these preventive measures, the Thane District Excise Department, under the leadership of Excise Superintendent Nilesh Sangade, has intensified its crackdown on prohibited activities. Between March 16 and April 19, a total of 276 offenses were registered under relevant sections of the Bombay Prohibition Act by the department’s 11 divisions and two flying squads.
During this period, 170 individuals were arrested, and nine vehicles were impounded. The department also seized liquor and illicit brewing materials valued at over Rs. 1.42 crore through round-the-clock operations across the district since the enforcement of the model code of conduct on March 16. Offenses included bootlegging, illicit liquor manufacturing, smuggling, unauthorized transportation of liquor, and other breaches related to the illegal sale of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) and country liquor by licensed establishments.
