Have Authorities Busted a Racket Refilling Premium Scotch Bottles with Cheap Alcohol in Punjab?
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Synopsis
In a significant crackdown, Punjab's Excise Department has unveiled a racket involved in refilling premium scotch bottles with low-quality liquor. Two major operations led to the seizure of illicit alcohol and arrests. This operation raises serious questions about consumer safety and the ongoing battle against bootlegging in the state.
Key Takeaways
- The Punjab Excise Department has uncovered a racket refilling premium alcohol bottles.
- Authorities seized a large quantity of illicit liquor during the operations.
- Two individuals were arrested in connection to these operations.
- The public is encouraged to report suspicious activities to combat illegal liquor.
- Ongoing enforcement efforts will continue across the state.
Chandigarh, Aug 31 (NationPress) The Punjab Excise and Taxation Minister Harpal Singh Cheema announced on Sunday that the State Excise Department has executed two significant enforcement operations, resulting in the discovery of a criminal operation that involved refilling premium scotch and whiskey bottles with inferior and inexpensive alcohol, alongside the seizure of a large quantity of illicit liquor.
He mentioned that these operations in the Ludhiana (East) jurisdiction were carried out based on specific intelligence and were supervised by Excise and Taxation Commissioner Jitendra Jorwal along with senior officials from the department.
"Our teams executed their duties flawlessly, not only confiscating illegal stock but also uncovering a new modus operandi where criminals jeopardize public health by refilling premium bottles with substandard liquor. This represents a blatant act of fraud and poses a severe threat to consumer safety; we will not stand for it," he stated.
During the initial raid, enforcement teams, in collaboration with local police, dismantled a sophisticated network functioning in Ludhiana.
The suspects were caught red-handed refilling high-end imported liquor bottles, including Glenlivet, Johnnie Walker Gold Label, and Chivas Regal, with cheaper Indian Made Foreign Liquor and Punjab Medium Liquor, aiming to deceive buyers and evade excise taxes.
Two individuals, Amit Vij and Pankaj Saini, were detained at the scene.
Authorities seized 106 empty bottles, 39 refilled bottles, various bottling equipment, and a vehicle.
An FIR has been lodged at Police Station Division number 3 in Ludhiana, and investigations are underway to ascertain the full extent of the network.
In a separate operation, excise officials apprehended Vikramjeet Singh in Samrala, who was found with 60 bottles of illicit alcohol labeled "For Sale in Chandigarh only".
This consignment had been illegally smuggled into Punjab, leading to his arrest.
A case has been registered under the applicable provisions of the Punjab Excise Act, 1914.
Minister Cheema emphasized that the Excise Department will persist with its rigorous enforcement campaigns throughout the state to dismantle illegal supply chains and curb the distribution of fake and non-duty-paid alcohol.
He underscored that regular raids, surprise inspections, and coordinated inter-state operations will continue against bootleggers and smugglers.
The Minister also called on citizens to stay alert and report any suspicious activities to the nearest excise or police authority, highlighting that public cooperation is essential to eradicate the illegal liquor issue in Punjab.
Point of View
This incident underscores the pressing need for stringent regulations and enforcement in the liquor industry. It reflects the ongoing struggle against organized crime and the importance of safeguarding public health. The Punjab Excise Department's proactive measures are commendable, yet they also highlight the broader challenges faced by authorities in combatting illicit activities. NationPress stands firm in its support for the efforts to ensure consumer safety and uphold the law.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was uncovered by the Punjab Excise Department?
The Punjab Excise Department uncovered a racket involved in refilling premium scotch and whiskey bottles with low-quality alcohol.
What actions were taken against the suspects?
Two individuals were arrested, and a significant quantity of illicit alcohol was seized during the enforcement operations.
What is the public urged to do?
The public is urged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest excise or police authority to help combat illicit liquor.
What laws were violated in this case?
The case involves violations of the Punjab Excise Act of 1914 regarding the distribution of illicit alcohol.
What is the government's stance on illegal liquor distribution?
The government is committed to rigorous enforcement drives to dismantle illegal supply chains and protect public health.
