Election raid: Shutters down for many Bengaluru bars, pubs
Look around Bengaluru and you'll find many bars and pubs closed. This is owing to Election Commission's model code of conduct imposed on Karnataka for the upcoming elections. Following the code, raids were conducted across the state to check for violations and around 793 bars and pubs were asked to shut down. Interestingly, during 2014 general elections, only 14 violations were reported.
Even bulk purchase of alcohol would draw excise's ire
The model code of conduct entails prohibition on sale of alcohol during elections and on candidates buying alcohol in bulk before polls. The code was enforced from March 27 when poll dates were announced. Till now, excise licenses of 303 out of a total 2,200 establishments stand suspended in Bengaluru, which would be reinstated after elections following penalty payment.
Rules more stringent this year: Senior excise officials
Excise lens are also on retail shops, restaurants serving liquor and on individuals buying alcohol in bulk. Senior excise officials said that norms are more stringent this year, adding that violation "with respect to timings, improper record-keeping of stocks and sales, and selling beyond the permissible limit" would be investigated. However, Munish Moudgil, Excise Commissioner, said that it's just a routine check before polls.
Ban on bulk sale may lead to adulterated liquor consumption
Since March-27 till now, a stunning 3.65L liters of alcohol have been seized. Officials, however, fear ban on bulk sale will result in spike in adulterated liquor consumption that is often fatal. In fact, many Goa-Karnataka check-posts have reported adulterated liquor coming in from Goa.
