- October 19, 2023
State Excise Department Seizes 20,500 Litres of Illicit Liquor in Sirmaur District, Cracks Down on Tax Evasion
“State Excise Department Seizes 20,500 Litres of Illicit Liquor in Sirmaur District, Cracks Down on Tax Evasion”
In a decisive move against illegal liquor production and tax evasion, the State Tax and Excise Department successfully confiscated approximately 20,500 liters of illicit liquor along with 115 boxes of English liquor and beer. The operation was carried out in various locations throughout the Sirmaur district, showcasing the department’s unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order in the realm of alcohol production and taxation.
The Excise Commissioner, Dr. Yunus, reported that a specialized team in Sirmaur played a pivotal role in the operation. They managed to seize significant quantities of “Lahan” (country liquor), including 7,000 liters, 4,000 liters, and 9,500 liters in different areas. Remarkably, some of this illegal liquor was discovered being prepared in the dense forests of Toka-Nagla, hidden near a drain.
Moreover, a district team of the Excise Department operating in Mandi executed a late-night raid that resulted in the seizure of 115 boxes of English liquor and beer intended for sale in Chandigarh.
In a separate incident in Shimla, the department discovered silver jewelry valued at Rs 3.33 lakh without valid bills or documents and subsequently imposed a fine of Rs. 20,000. Notably, the department has been relentless in its efforts to combat tax evasion and illicit liquor production, having already seized unbilled jewelry worth approximately Rs. 23 crore and destroyed a staggering 87,000 bulk liters of illegal liquor. The State Excise Department is steadfast in its commitment to maintaining zero tolerance for illicit liquor and tax evasion.
The Excise Commissioner also highlighted the availability of a 24×7 control room for reporting illegal activities. He urged the public to promptly report instances of illegal liquor production and tax evasion by calling the toll-free number 18001808060 or reaching out via WhatsApp at 94183-31426. This open channel of communication ensures the public’s involvement in maintaining law and order in the field of excise and taxation.