The State Excise Department, conducting a massive law and enforcement action, collected a revenue of Rs 2,998.33 crore in the financial year 2024–25, surpassing last year’s record by 9.85 per cent compared to Rs 2,729.44 crore in 2023–24.
Charansingh Rajput, Superintendent of State Excise, Pune division, said that in the financial year 2024–25, a total of 5,995 offences were registered in the district, leading to the arrest of 5,891 individuals. In these operations, goods valued at Rs 25.80 crore, including 621 vehicles, were seized.
Under Section 93 of the Maharashtra Prohibition Act, 1949, as many as 577 proposals have been submitted to concerned magistrates against habitual offenders. Additionally, 299 good conduct bonds amounting to Rs 2.18 crore have been secured. Of the nine proposals filed under the MPDA Act, one case resulted in preventive detention action against a habitual offender.
Moreover, the department also conducted continuous checks on liquor licenses issued in the district. Accordingly, a total of 569 cases were filed against licensees for violations during 2024–25, and four licenses were permanently cancelled. A fine of Rs 1.86 crore was recovered in connection with these violations.
Action on illegal sales of liquor
A total of 455 cases were registered against individuals involved in illegal liquor sales and consumption at unauthorised spots. This led to the arrest of 1,250 persons, and the courts imposed fines amounting to Rs 8.19 lakh on the accused. The department emphasised that action is being taken not only against illegal liquor sellers but also against those consuming liquor at such places under Sections 68 and 84 of the Maharashtra Prohibition Act.
Superintendent Rajput stated that under the guidance of State Excise Commissioner Dr Rajesh Deshmukh, District Collector Jitendra Dudi and Divisional Deputy Commissioner Sagar Dhomkar, strict action is being taken against the manufacturing, transportation, and sale of illicit liquor, along with illegal bars and toddy shops. A total of 21 task forces are actively working to curb these illegal activities, including the smuggling of liquor from other states.
Citizens are requested to report any information or complaints regarding illegal liquor distribution by calling the toll-free number 1800-233-9999 or contacting the Superintendent’s office at 020-26127321.
