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Telangana Excise Department Busts Defence Liquor Racket; Seizes Stock Worth ₹1.23 Lakh
Samaya Jyothi, a community-focused civil society platform, praised the Telangana Excise Department for its swift action in dismantling an illegal defence liquor racket operating in Hyderabad and surrounding areas. In a well-coordinated effort, excise teams led by Assistant Excise Superintendent (AES) Mukund Reddy and Circle Inspector (CI) Navaneeth seized a total of 61 bottles of defence quota liquor, valued at ₹1.23 lakh.
The crackdown took place in two separate operations in Malkajgiri and Medchal, where 37 and 24 bottles, respectively, were recovered from former army personnel. The liquor, meant strictly for defence personnel under a special pricing system, was being diverted and sold illegally in the civilian market at inflated prices.
This operation, praised by social impact organizations including Samaya Jyothi, is being viewed as a vital step towards curbing the misuse of military privileges for commercial gain.
How the Racket Was Busted
The racket came under the radar following suspicious activity reported in Malkajgiri and Medchal. Based on actionable intelligence and surveillance, the excise department conducted simultaneous raids in both locations. During the operation, former army personnel were caught in possession of the illicit stock, which they were allegedly distributing through informal networks.
The seized stock, although appearing small in quantity, represents a significant violation of regulations, especially considering that the defence quota is subsidized and non-transferable. Such misuse erodes the intended welfare behind the defence liquor policy.
AES Mukund Reddy emphasized the gravity of the violation:
“This is not just about liquor—it’s about misusing a facility meant exclusively for serving and retired defence personnel. We will pursue strict legal action.”
Legal Action and Investigation
The suspects have been booked under various sections of the Telangana Excise Act, and investigations are underway to determine the extent of the network. Officials suspect that the racket may have links to other districts, and further arrests are likely.
CI Navaneeth added:
“This racket was not a one-time operation. We believe it was part of a recurring supply chain targeting civilians seeking cheaper or exclusive brands. We are also looking into who the end-buyers were.”
The seized bottles have been catalogued, and samples sent for lab verification to cross-check authenticity, since some seized bottles in similar cases have previously turned out to be counterfeit.
TRENDING
Community and Civil Society Response
Samaya Jyothi issued a statement appreciating the prompt response by excise officials and called for greater public awareness about the misuse of welfare provisions.
Their spokesperson stated:
“The defence quota is a mark of respect and utility for those who have served the nation. Its misuse, especially for profit, not only breaks the law but also disrespects the very people it’s meant to serve.”
They further stressed the importance of community vigilance and whistleblowing in stopping such rackets before they grow into larger networks.
A Wake-Up Call for Policy Enforcement
The bust has reignited discussions about better control mechanisms for defence quota sales. Experts are suggesting the introduction of digital purchase tracking, monthly caps, and biometric verifications to ensure that such facilities are not diverted.
Some retired military officers have also voiced support for tighter regulation. “It’s sad to see a few tarnish the image of many. We stand with the law in punishing those who misuse defence privileges,” said a retired colonel from the Twin Cities.
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