UP tightens grip on liquor shops, enforces strict inspection norms

Abhishek Byahut

Noida: The Uttar Pradesh government has reinforced strict inspection and monitoring norms for liquor and bhang shops under its 2026–27 excise policy, directing officials to ensure full compliance with licensing conditions while safeguarding transparency in enforcement.

In an official communication issued from the Chief Secretary’s office, authorities across districts have been instructed that inspections of retail and wholesale excise units must strictly adhere to policy provisions. The directive emphasises that no shop can be sealed or shut by the police or any agency without prior approval from the designated licensing authority.

The order further clarifies that inspections can only be conducted by excise department officials or officers specifically authorised by the licensing authority. Any deviation from this mandate would be considered a violation of the policy framework. To enhance accountability, the government has made videography of inspection proceedings mandatory in cases where authorised officers conduct checks, ensuring that the process remains transparent and free from arbitrary action.

Officials said the move is aimed at streamlining enforcement and preventing undue interference, while maintaining a balance between regulation and ease of doing business for licensed operators. Regular inspections have also been made compulsory, with district-level officers directed to submit detailed reports highlighting compliance status and any violations detected.

The tightening of norms comes at a time when excise revenue continues to play a critical role in the state’s financial framework. The government has underlined that revenue generation from liquor and bhang sales significantly contributes to public welfare schemes and development programmes.