Overview: In a bid to curb the menace of counterfeit liquor, the Excise Department in India has intensified its campaign against illicit liquor production and sales. A special squad was formed to tackle this issue, leading to significant seizures of contraband worth over INR 1.5 crore.
The Full Story
In a recent operation conducted between May 29 and June 2, 2026, the Excise Department registered a total of 313 cases against individuals accused of producing or selling illicit liquor in various districts across the Konkan division. This crackdown is a direct response to the tragic incident that occurred in Pune city last week, where multiple people fell victim to consuming toxic alcohol.
The operation involved teams from Thane, Palghar, and Raigad districts working together to dismantle production centers and seize contraband materials valued at INR 1 crore 58 lakh 17 thousand 546. The areas targeted included Diva Gavkadi, Ghesar, Anjur, Alimghar, Chhoti Desai, Mothi Desai in Thane district; Maljipada, Vasai and Virar in Palghardistrict; Ravegaon Bekaregaon Javligaon in Raigad district. Additionally eight vehicles were seized for illegal transportation of liquor.
Production & Profile
The illicit liquor production centers dismantled during the operation are believed to have been producing country liquor, which is often contaminated with toxic substances like methanol or chloral hydrate. These substances can be lethal and pose a significant threat to public health. The seized materials include equipment used for brewing and bottling operations.
The contraband worth INR 1.5 crore includes illicitly brewed liquor, packaging materials, bottles, labels, etc., which were being sold in the black market under various names. In many cases these substances have been found to be laced with dangerous chemicals causing irreversible damage upon consumption.
Brand & Industry History
The practice of producing and selling illicit liquor has a long history in India, particularly in rural areas where lack of awareness about regulations and stringent laws often leads to involvement. The state government has been working towards implementing effective measures to combat this menace through awareness campaigns.
In 2017 the Maharashtra Excise Department took action against several manufacturers for producing spurious liquor that caused the deaths of many people in Thane district itself. Following which severe penalties were imposed on those caught involved in such activities, however it has been observed that illicit production and sale continue to thrive despite these measures.
What This Means
The latest crackdown is a significant step towards combating this serious threat to public health. The State Excise Department (Konkan Division) assures the public that their identities will be kept strictly confidential if they provide information regarding production, adulteration transportation or sale of substances like methanol chloral hydrate.
Residents are urged to report any suspicious activity through toll-free number 18002339999 and WhatsApp no.8422001133 with an assurance from the department that their identities will remain protected.
Consumer Takeaway
The public is advised to be vigilant when consuming liquor, ensuring it comes from licensed vendors only and remains cautious of cheap rates offered by unscrupulous individuals selling illicit liquor. With a heightened awareness about the risks associated with counterfeit products consumers can contribute in preventing such incidents.
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