Booze lovers have a field day

A liquor vend displays discounted price list to attract buyers on the Kotkapura road in Muktsar town on Thursday. Tribune photo

Archit Watts

Tribune News Service

Muktsar, March 31

It was the day of booze lovers as liquor vends today offered up to 40 per cent discount on all brands.

A large number of people, defying the norms, bought liquor beyond the prescribed limit and excise officials remained mute spectators.

Further, in some villages liquor was sold by making public announcements on tractor-trolleys and canters. In towns, banners and hoardings offering discounts were seen displayed outside liquor vends.

Tipplers wait for this day every year when the term of liquor vends expires with the end of the financial year and they offer discounts to clear their stock. On being asked whether they were flouting norms by offering discount and selling liquor beyond the prescribed limit to a buyer, he said, “The quota can’t be carried forward to next year so this is the only option to clear the stock at discounted price. We are only following the directions of the contractor.”

However, as per the rules, only those people can buy liquor in bulk who have the L-50 licence from the Excise Department.

Ranjit Singh of Gurusar village said, “A canter full of liquor boxes came to our neighbouring Lundewala village yesterday, offering liquor at cheap prices. The stock was cleared in 45 minutes.”

Inder Mohan, Assistant Excise and Taxation Commissioner, Muktsar, said, “It is against norms to offer discount on liquor. I will immediately send my team for inspection.”

Courtesy: The Tribune