PANAJI
In what might not surprise many, excise officials have conceded to violations of liquor permits by several commercial establishments, particularly those in the coastal belt while claiming action is initiated only if complaints are filed.
“The responsibility for compliance with the conditions laid down in the license rests with the owner of concerned establishments. We actively monitor for violations but our interventions largely follow when complaints are filed with the department or respective excise stations,” a senior officer, wishing anonymity, said while speaking to The Goan.
The coastal stretch has recently witnessed several instances of liquor license violations and noise pollution. A complaint against one El Patron bar and music café in Siolim is the latest instance.
The officer further revealed that excise stations do receive phone calls on the violations, albeit written complaints are more in number. “We visit the location after the permissible hours to check for violations. If the owner/operator is caught defying the conditions, appropriate action is taken,” the officer added.
As the tourist season inches closer, the excise department is now expected to deploy a sufficient number of staff members along the coastal belt to ensure strict compliance with liquor regulations.
“We have been receiving complaints regarding certain beachside shacks and restaurants, etc serving liquor beyond the permissible limits,” another officer at the department's headquarters said.
“During long weekends, national holidays, and particularly the tourist season, we receive a significant number of complaints. Yes, there are violations,” he admitted.
Recently, El Patron has faced scrutiny for allegedly serving liquor past 11 pm. However, in a fresh complaint filed by a local resident with the Mapusa Excise Station, it is alleged that the establishment is operating without a valid license from the competent authorities.
“The mentioned El Patron is misusing the bar license of shop No. 150/2, which is registered under the name of Newton for Jose bar and restaurant... El Patron bar and music café is an entirely separate structure with no valid license... this is illegal and calls for strict action against the owners, Akshit and Uday,” the complaint stated.
The complainant has also raised concerns about the disruptive loud music played during odd hours, which has been causing inconvenience to the residents in the vicinity.
