In a major crackdown on the illegal liquor trade, the Kerala Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) launched a statewide surprise inspection drive on Sunday. The operation, codenamed 'Operation Bar Code', targeted bars, beer and wine parlours, and excise department offices across the state.
Intelligence Points to Rampant Illegal Activities
The action was initiated based on specific intelligence inputs received by the vigilance department. Reports indicated that numerous bars across Kerala were involved in the sale of illegal or spurious liquor, often called 'seconds'. This activity is a clear violation of the state's Abkari Act and the conditions of their operating licenses.
More alarmingly, the VACB had credible information alleging collusion between some bar owners and excise officials. It was reported that certain officials were accepting monthly bribes to turn a blind eye to these illegal sales and to avoid conducting mandatory inspections.
Simultaneous Raids Uncover Statewide Network
Acting on these leads, multiple vigilance teams swung into action simultaneously at 10 am on Sunday. Under the direct supervision of Vigilance Director Manoj Abraham, inspections were carried out at 66 bar hotels and their corresponding excise circle offices in various districts.
The preliminary findings from the operation revealed a disturbing pattern. Investigators found indications that some bar operators were illegally procuring liquor from neighbouring states and Union Territories at cheaper rates and selling it within Kerala. In other instances, liquor legally sourced from the Kerala State Beverages Corporation (Bevco) was allegedly being mixed with illicit spirit to produce adulterated alcohol for sale.
Such practices not only breach licensing norms but also pose severe health hazards to unsuspecting consumers.
Excise Officials Under Scanner for Dereliction of Duty
The vigilance department emphasized that excise officials have a clear duty to conduct regular checks, ensure compliance with license conditions, and take action against any violations. However, the intelligence suggested a deliberate failure in this duty, with some officials allegedly overlooking irregularities in exchange for bribes and other illegal gratifications.
The primary objectives of Operation Bar Code are to verify these serious allegations, identify both the corrupt officials and the bar operators involved, and initiate stringent legal proceedings where violations are confirmed.
Public Cooperation Sought to Curb Corruption
In a bid to strengthen the fight against corruption in the liquor trade, Vigilance Director Manoj Abraham has appealed to the public for assistance. Citizens who have any information regarding corruption or illegal activities linked to bars or the excise department are urged to come forward.
Complaints can be lodged through the following channels:
- Toll-free number: 1064
- Mobile number: 8592900900
- WhatsApp: 9447789100
The ongoing operation marks a significant effort by the state's anti-corruption agency to cleanse the system and ensure the safety and legality of liquor sales in Kerala.
