Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Nov 5: Goa chief minister Pramod Sawant has issued a stern warning against the illegal movement of alcohol into and out of the state, asserting that strict action will be taken against anyone involved in liquor smuggling or production of duplicate alcohol.

Sawant said that no individual or trader will be allowed to bring alcohol into Goa from outside or transport Goa’s liquor illegally to other states, stressing the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order.

The warning comes amid rising concerns over liquor smuggling following Maharashtra’s 80 per cent hike in alcohol duty. Goa Forward Party MLA Vijai Sardesai recently alleged that the price differential has made liquor smuggling from Goa to Maharashtra “highly profitable.”

Sardesai also claimed that the illegal trade could indicate possible political involvement, warning that Goa risks becoming a hub for illicit alcohol with “huge money flowing to the state government.”

Authorities have intensified vigilance along state borders to curb the movement of illegal liquor, officials said.