Ahead of polls in Rajasthan, alcohol shops to be watched

With the imposition of model code of conduct in the state for the Assembly elections, sales of liquor at licenced shops are being monitored by excise department officials. Officials are keeping a keen on daily sales of alcohol, and are checking for any abnormal increase in the sales as well.

District excise officer (city) Rajesh Verma said if the increase in sales goes 30 per cent beyond the average, then they will scrutinise things more carefully.

He added that they haven't noticed any abnormalities yet, but the officials are keeping an eye out. They propose to be stricter after the election notification is issued.

Moreover, action against illicit liquor is also being taken, so its distribution can be stopped. Officials said production units are being put under the watch of CCTV cameras. Things will become even more strict once the notification is issued, as there are higher chances of violation that time, the sources said.

The Election Commission has a set of directions regarding liquor sale and consumption. The department of excise, along with the police, has a big role to play in stopping the distribution of illicit liquor during this time.

During elections, check posts at bordering states and across various districts are set up to keep a tab on illicit liquor trade. Dry days are declared at the time of election. Meanwhile, after the notification is issued, the c-vigil app of the Election Commission will start functioning, and people can report about the use of illicit liquor or any other violation of code of conduct to the Election Commission.