Massive Crackdown on Counterfeit Liquor Operation in Bengal Before Elections, Seizures Totaling Rs 62 Lakh
Synopsis
In a significant crackdown, the Excise Department has seized raw materials worth Rs 62.40 lakh in Siliguri, West Bengal, ahead of the Assembly elections. This operation aims to combat the production of illicit liquor that poses a health risk and threatens the integrity of the electoral process.
Key Takeaways
1,560 liters of OP spirit seized in Siliguri.
Materials worth Rs 62.40 lakh confiscated.
Counterfeit labels and holograms were included in the seizure.
Operation conducted to prevent illicit liquor production.
Polling for assembly elections on April 23 and 29.
Kolkata, March 30 (NationPress) An extensive operation by the Excise Department has led to the confiscation of a significant amount of raw materials and equipment utilized in the production of counterfeit liquor in Siliguri, West Bengal, which is gearing up for elections, as stated by a senior official from the Election Commission on Monday.
As per reports, approximately 1,560 liters of OP spirit (surgical spirit) were discovered in Siliguri during a raid executed based on reliable intelligence.
This substance serves as a critical component in the crafting of illicit liquor. Authorities suspect that there was a scheme to inundate the West Bengal market with counterfeit liquor ahead of the Assembly elections, potentially swaying voter opinions.
The Excise Department has relayed this intelligence to the Election Commission, which has enhanced monitoring and preventive measures against such illicit activities.
In total, materials valued at Rs 62.40 lakh have been seized. The confiscation included OP spirit, counterfeit labels from two prominent liquor brands, fake holograms, bottle caps, and a substantial quantity of empty plastic bottles.
Authorities retrieved roughly 14,000 counterfeit labels for one brand and over 3,000 for another, along with 984 fake holograms, 440 bottle caps, and 35 empty bottles from the site.
The Election Commission confirmed that no legitimate liquor was found during the operation. The Excise Department indicated that all confiscated items were intended for the manufacture of spurious liquor.
Officials noted that the OP spirit was to be processed and marketed as branded alcohol using counterfeit labels and holograms, misleading consumers into believing the products were legitimate. Following specific intelligence, excise officials conducted the raid and destroyed the materials.
Initial findings imply that the effort to produce counterfeit liquor was designed to attract voters while also posing a severe risk to public health. The Election Commission highlighted that such illicit liquor could lead to critical health complications if consumed.
Voting for the 294 assembly constituencies in West Bengal is scheduled for two phases on April 23 and 29, with the counting of votes set for May 4.
The Election Commission has reiterated its dedication to ensuring elections are conducted in a free, fair, and peaceful manner, deploying observers across all constituencies.
Point of View
Especially in the context of upcoming elections. Ensuring a fair electoral process is imperative, and such actions demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding public health and integrity.
NationPress
6 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was seized during the operation?
The operation resulted in the seizure of 1,560 liters of OP spirit, counterfeit labels, fake holograms, bottle caps, and empty plastic bottles worth Rs 62.40 lakh.
Why was the operation conducted?
The operation aimed to prevent the production of spurious liquor that could influence voters during the upcoming elections.
What risks does counterfeit liquor pose?
Counterfeit liquor poses serious health risks, potentially leading to severe health issues if consumed.
When are the elections in West Bengal scheduled?
The polling for the 294 assembly constituencies in West Bengal will take place on April 23 and 29, with counting set for May 4.
What measures is the Election Commission taking?
The Election Commission is enhancing surveillance and deploying observers to ensure free and fair elections.
