Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (SP)

Bengaluru, Apr 20: For black-marketers, the lockdown has come as godsend opportunity. They have devised ways and means to multiply their profits by misusing the current situation. They are selling liquor at three or four times their normal prices. This scenario is also advantageous for excise and police officials who too get profit, it is said.

At the same time, the money which should have gone to the government is cornered by these miscreants.

Excise department plays a major role in filling the coffers of the state government. Excise department used to earn a daily income of Rs 60 crore for the government. During the month following the clamping of lockdown, the loss of income through liquor alone has exceeded Rs 1,900 crore. As per an estimate, this loss of income will further swell to Rs 3,000 crore by May 3.

The excise department had largely succeeded in stopping the malpractice of selling second and thirds business. Avenues of revenue leakage were closed. The department also had succeeded in stopping production of Nira and toddy.

Initially, after the lockdown was announced, a few liquor addicts ended their lives, have not been able to get liquor. The hoarders initially offered liquor at twice the price and in course of time, have increased the prices manifold.

The excise department has the right to cancel the licences of wine stores if there is a lot of difference in the stock position once the restrictions are lifted. But the officials who have the right to take action, cannot discharge responsibility unless they are too strict.

There are reports of liquor being sold through the backdoors of different buildings. Bengaluru too is witnessing this trade, but cases registered comprise only a small portion of the entire operations.