Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Jan 8: In a sweeping state-wide crackdown aimed at protecting consumers and curbing illegal profiteering, the Karnataka excise department has intensified action against liquor retailers selling alcohol above the maximum retail price (MRP). The enforcement drive has resulted in the collection of nearly Rs 12 crore in fines and the suspension of 736 liquor shop licences across the state.

Excise officials said the practice of charging above the prescribed rates not only exploits consumers but also adversely impacts government revenue, particularly during peak festive seasons and periods of high demand.

Karnataka has 13,972 licensed liquor outlets, including MSIL (CL-11C) outlets and retail wine shops (CL-2), all of which are mandated by law to sell liquor strictly at MRP. However, authorities have found that a large number of retailers continue to violate the rule in pursuit of higher profits.

The violations are not limited to retail outlets alone. Bars and hotels offering on-premise consumption have also been found adding service charges and taxes, significantly inflating the final bill for customers. Officials pointed out that many outlets fail to display proper price lists, while some list only the lowest-priced liquor brands, leaving consumers unaware of the correct MRP for other products.

Excise department officials revealed that nearly 10,000 liquor outlets have been booked over the past five months. During this period, fines totalling Rs 12.05 crore were imposed, and 736 licences were suspended for repeated or serious violations. Districts including Bengaluru, Koppal, Vijayapura, Ballari and Kalaburagi recorded the highest number of MRP-related offences.

Reiterating its commitment to consumer protection, the excise department has directed all retail liquor shops to strictly comply with MRP guidelines. Bars, hotels and restaurants are also under heightened scrutiny, particularly if they levy additional charges on the total bill without clearly disclosing them to customers.

“We will not tolerate any violation of pricing norms. Failure to comply will invite stringent action, including heavy fines and suspension of licences,” an excise official said.

To further empower consumers, the department has announced that detailed MRP information will soon be made available on its official website, enabling customers to verify prices and report violations.

Officials noted that the fines collected through these enforcement actions contribute substantially to the state exchequer and are utilised for development projects and new government initiatives. By enforcing strict adherence to MRP norms, the excise department aims to ensure transparency, curb illegal profiteering and maintain fair pricing for alcohol consumers across Karnataka.