BELAGAVI
Intensifying its drive against the illicitly transported liquor from Goa to Belagavi, South Belagavi excise authorities have seized Goa liquor worth over Rs 1 crore since March 1 this year.
The Belagavi South range comprises five talukas of Belagavi, Khanapur, Ramdurg, Savadatti and Bailhongal. With its proximity to Goa, Khanapur taluka leads the list.
Being cheaper compared to Karnataka prices, Goa liquor is always an attraction for tipplers of Karnataka and the demand rises during elections. Belagavi Biryani and Goa liquor is the best proposition used by contesting candidates to lure the voters. Thus, in wake of the forthcoming elections to Karnataka assembly, huge quantity of Goa liquor is being transported illegally to Belagavi and border districts of Karnataka.
District authorities have set up check posts at Kankumbi, Londa and near Shinoli to check the inflow of Goa liquor making its way to Belagavi. Huge quantity of Goa liquor is also being seized at Anmod check point which comes under Karwar district.
The special drive commenced from March 1, after which every vehicle from Goa entering Karnataka is being checked thoroughly. The Belagavi South division has seized a total of 9,918.660 litres of illicitly hoarded Karnataka liquor and 7,520.435 litres of Goa liquor.
“Of the total value of Rs 1,64,03,791 of the total liquor seized, the value of Goa liquor is estimated at more than a Rs 1 crore as per the Karnataka market,” SP (Excise) Vijay Hiremath said.
Three heavy vehicles, one four wheeler and three other vehicles have been seized, he added.
On March 27, a Bangalore-bound bus was intercepted and about 119 litres of Goa liquor bottles concealed below the bus was recovered by the police.
Similar incidents of transportation of Goa liquor are rising, prompting the district police, excise and revenue authorities to be on high alert.
