Excise officials crack down on illegal liquor sales at Shivamogga roadside hotels

Excise Department officials launched a coordinated inspection drive on the Shivamogga–Tirthahalli Road on October 14, checking hotels and other establishments at multiple points including Gajanur, Sakrebailu, and Mandagadde. The operation focused on identifying unlicensed or illegal consumption of alcohol at hospitality venues along the corridor.

The surprise checks are part of ongoing efforts by the Excise Department to enforce liquor laws and ensure compliance with state regulations governing the sale and consumption of alcohol in commercial establishments. Hotels and restaurants operating in the region are required to hold valid licenses for serving alcoholic beverages and must adhere to prescribed operating guidelines.

Such inspection drives are routinely conducted across Karnataka to curb unauthorized alcohol sales and consumption. The department has intensified monitoring along major highways and roads where such violations are frequently reported. Establishments found violating excise norms face penalties and potential suspension of licenses.