A stringent vigil is maintained at all the posts, under the guidance of Kolhapur Superintendent of Police Manoj Sharma and Excise Deputy Commissioner Sanjay Mukherjee, to restrict the entry of Goa-made liquor, which is allegedly being transported in Maharashtra due to the assembly election on October 15.
“A team of five-six staff members is maintaining the vigil at all these border points to prevent entry of Goa-made liquor in the district. The team comprising excise officials, police constables and supported by home guards is maintaining round the clock surveillance at these border posts. We are also taking video shooting of the vehicles that are being checked,” Excise Deputy Superintendent of Police Sanjay Patil from Kolhapur told Herald.
“So far we have seized about 10 boxes of Goa-made liquor, apart from bottles of beer and other liquor, which is being transported in cars and jeeps. Every vehicle entering Kolhapur district is being checked thoroughly for Goa-made liquor and cash that are rampantly being transported during the elections,” he added.
According to sources, along with non-vegetarian food, Goa liquor which is cheaper compared to Maharashtra is liberally distributed by candidates during the elections to lure prospective voters and activists, especially youngsters who are engaged in canvassing for various political parties. However, stringent vigil maintained by authorities has made it difficult for suppliers in Goa and their buyers in Maharashtra to maintain the required quantity of supply of liquor.
Sharma is believed to be monitoring the Goa liquor issue very closely and has warned of stringent action against anyone involved in the illicit liquor supply from Goa.
