In a decisive move, the State Excise Department of Pune Division has initiated stringent action against individuals involved in the illicit sale and consumption of alcohol at Hotel Khind dhaba situated in Kothrud. A dedicated team, spearheaded by Sub-Inspector Pratap Bodekar, conducted a targeted raid, revealing the unlawful dispensation of liquor to patrons by the dhaba operator, Yogesh Suresh Mathwad.
The raid culminated in the apprehension of four individuals, including the dhaba’s driver, found to be under the influence of alcohol. Swift investigation ensued, leading to the submission of a comprehensive charge sheet to the court of the Judicial Magistrate First Class in Shivaji Nagar, Pune.
In adherence to the court’s directives, Yogesh Suresh Mathwad, along with the dhaba driver, incurred a hefty fine of ₹1 lakh, while the intoxicated customers faced individual fines amounting to ₹2,000 each. Those unable to meet the financial obligations stipulated by the court risk facing a two-month term of simple imprisonment.
This operation unfolds amidst the State Excise Department’s concerted efforts to uphold the rule of law during the backdrop of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, with a particular emphasis on thwarting the production, transit, and vending of illicit liquor. Dhabas and hotels find themselves subjected to impromptu inspections as part of the department’s overarching strategy to ensure regulatory compliance.
Inspector S. Kadam of State Excise C Division underscored the gravity of the offences associated with the sale and consumption of liquor at dhabas, affirming the imperative of imposing strict penalties on transgressors.
Key Points:
- The State Excise Department of Pune Division has initiated decisive action against those involved in the illegal sale and consumption of alcohol at Hotel Khind dhaba in Kothrud.
- A dedicated team led by Sub-Inspector Pratap Bodekar conducted a targeted raid, exposing the dhaba operator’s unlawful dispensation of liquor to customers.
- Four individuals, including the dhaba driver, were apprehended during the raid for being under the influence of alcohol.
- The investigation culminated in the submission of a charge sheet to the Judicial Magistrate First Class in Shivaji Nagar, Pune.
- As per the court’s ruling, hefty fines were imposed on the dhaba operator and driver, while intoxicated customers incurred individual penalties. Failure to pay fines may result in a two-month term of simple imprisonment.
- The crackdown aligns with the State Excise Department’s broader efforts to enforce the law during the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, with a focus on combating the illegal production, transit, and sale of alcohol.
- Inspector S. Kadam emphasized the seriousness of the offences, highlighting the necessity of stringent penalties for violators.
