Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Aug 7: In a decisive move to tackle underage drinking, the Dakshina Kannada excise department carried out simultaneous, unannounced inspections at more than ten bars and pubs across the city.

The special drive, conducted between 8 pm and 10.30 pm, saw teams of officials deployed across multiple venues at the exact same time to maintain the element of surprise. The operation was executed under the guidance of excise deputy commissioner Bindushree.

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During the raids, officials rigorously scrutinized the age proof of the patrons. "We inspected more than 10 establishments and verified the identity documents of customers. No irregularities were detected. However, owners and employees were issued stern warnings that liquor must not be served to anyone below 21 years of age," stated Gayathri C H, deputy superintendent of the DK excise department.

Gayathri noted that the department proactively initiated this targeted drive in the wake of a recent, massive crackdown in neighbouring Manipal. In that incident, cases were registered against the management of six pubs and bars after 88 individuals under the age of 21 were caught consuming alcohol.

"Although we conduct inspections regularly, this was the first coordinated drive specifically aimed at checking whether liquor was being served to minors. Such surprise inspections will undoubtedly continue," the official affirmed.

The excise department has mandated that licensees must verify the age of young customers using valid, government-issued identification that displays a date of birth, such as a PAN card, driving licence, or Aadhaar card. Furthermore, establishments are now required to display prominent signboards explicitly stating that alcohol will not be served to those under 21, alongside strict warnings against drug consumption on the premises.

During the inspections, the excise teams also checked the venues for any suspected drug use, but no such violations were found.

Addressing the practical challenges faced by the establishments, Gayathri highlighted that while the department briefs licensees on regulations every two months, the high turnover rate of bar and restaurant staff often creates an information gap. "Some newly recruited employees may not know the age-related restrictions. It is the absolute responsibility of the owners to ensure that their staff verify identification and never serve liquor to anyone below 21," she emphasised.