Restaurants Becoming Illegal Hubs, Serves Alcohol To Underage people
Nagpur, India- If one observes the sudden increase in restaurants in and around Nagpur, one might think the city's food culture is growing. However, upon entering these establishments, it becomes clear that it's more about a drinking culture rather than the food. Many young customers frequent these restaurants for drinking sessions, even though they lack a valid permit for liquor consumption. The Bombay Prohibition Act strictly prohibits liquor consumption for those under 21, but many Nagpur restaurants allow it for all age groups without a valid permit. Along major roads, restaurants are filled with young crowds enjoying drinks daily.
These restaurants operate mainly based on customers coming in for drinks until 2 am. The restaurants on Amravati Road, Wardha Road, Kamptee Road, Umred Road, and both sides of the outer ring road are notorious for these illegal activities. Shockingly, even in the heart of the city, restaurants near Bajaj Nagar Square have become hubs for illegal liquor consumption. These establishments have illegally encroached upon the land of Panjabrao Krishi Vidyapeeth, and their business is booming. The prices of food items are similar to those in beer bars. Without liquor, their customer flow would likely decrease significantly.
The Law on Alcohol Consumption
The Bombay Prohibition Act (1949) in Maharashtra requires a permit to purchase and drink alcohol. People aged 21 to 24 can only drink mild beer, while those over 25 can drink stronger alcohol like whisky. Sellers must check the buyer’s age. Restaurants can issue a one-day permit for most alcohol for Rs 5 and country liquor for Rs 2. With a permit, a person can buy up to 12 bottles at once.
For big events where alcohol will be served, a special license is needed, but this rule is often ignored. The law allows police to arrest anyone buying, drinking, or serving alcohol without a permit, with penalties ranging from three months to five years in jail. Transporting alcohol without a permit can result in a fine of 50,000 rupees and five years in jail. If someone is caught drinking at a restaurant without a permit, they can be charged under Section 84 of the Act, and the restaurant owner can be charged under Section 68.
130 Restaurants Found Serving Alcohol Without Permits
From April 2023 to March 2024, around 130 restaurants were caught serving alcohol without a valid permit, according to the Excise Department. This shows a major violation of alcohol laws in the city. An official from the Excise Department said the rules are strict and that they will take strong action against restaurants serving alcohol without a license.
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