Shimla: State Taxes and Excise Department cracked down on illegal liquor operations in Himachal Pradesh. A specialized team, led by Sandeep Attri, Assistant Commissioner of State Taxes and Excise, conducted a targeted raid in the dense forests near Paonta Sahib in district Sirmaur.
Acting on timely intelligence, the team ventured 5 to 6 kilometers into the forest, uncovering three illegal liquor manufacturing units on the riverbanks.
In a swift operation, approximately 14,500 liters of illegal "lahan" were destroyed on the spot under the provisions of the Himachal Pradesh Excise Act, 2011, amounting to an estimated value of Rs. 4,35,000.
Dr. Yunus, Commissioner State Taxes and Excise, highlighted the ongoing statewide initiative to combat illegal liquor sales, following directives from the State Headquarters.
As part of these efforts, 115 boxes of English liquor and beer destined for sale in Chandigarh were seized in Mandi district, he said.
To enforce a zero-tolerance policy on illegal liquor and tax evasion, the department has deployed 24 mobile teams across the state. In the current fiscal year, these teams have successfully seized 1,08,698 liters of illicit liquor/lahan in 309 cases.
The Commissioner urged citizens to contribute to the cause by promptly reporting instances of illegal liquor and tax evasion through the toll-free number 1800-180-8060 and WhatsApp number 94183-31426.
