Himachal Pradesh has become the first state in the country to include property seizure provisions in its Excise Act.
Following the Governor’s approval, the Himachal Pradesh Excise Amendment Bill 2024 (Bill No. 16) has been officially gazetted by the Law Department. The amended law introduces stringent penalties, including up to five years of imprisonment and a fine up to Rs 5 lakh for producing or possessing illegal, substandard or toxic liquor.
Law targets those involved in transactions with accused
Under the new provisions, the Deputy Commissioners have been granted powers to initiate action. The law also targets those involved in transactions with accused individuals, strengthening the crackdown on illegal liquor operations.
The bill, which was passed during the monsoon session of the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha in September, also includes the deployment of a commando force in the Excise Department to bolster enforcement. This force will operate on a secondment basis.
The amendment applies to all entities involved in the production, manufacturing, import, export or transport of liquor. Those using equipment or materials for illegal liquor production can face imprisonment of three to five years and fines ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 5 lakh.
Offences under Act classified as cognisable, non-bailable
Additionally, the state has classified offences under the Act as cognisable and non-bailable, enabling arrests without warrants and increasing penalties.
The new provisions aim to address the gaps in previous laws, ensuring stricter enforcement and deterrence against illegal liquor activities, said an official.
