The glass is empty at liquor auctions in Punjab

Even as Punjab falls short of the revenue target set for the liquor sector this fiscal, liquor auctions in over eight districts of the state have evoked a dismal response, compelling the excise department to call for re-auctions. The contractors have called a boycott of the auction in several districts demanding a slash in reserve prices and application fees in the wake of financial losses.

Only two applicants participated in the auction in Abohar, one in Fazilka and none came forward in Ferozepur and Faridkot, after which the administration was compelled to call for a re-auction by reducing the reserve price by 5 per cent. 

“The contractors are incurring losses. It is becoming difficult to recover the investment made,” said Satpal, a Mohali-based liquor contractor.