Bhubaneshwar: Odisha's excise minister Prithiviraj Harichandan on Saturday announced strict measures to curb illegal liquor sales and ensure public safety during New Year celebrations.
Addressing the media persons in Bhubaneshwar, he emphasised that violations of excise laws and any disruptive activities under the influence of alcohol will attract stern action. The excise department is prioritising two key areas — preventing public disturbances caused by intoxicated individuals and cracking down on the sale and distribution of illegal liquor — to check illegal liquor sales.
With the New Year festivities and ‘Zero Night’ celebrations approaching, the authorities have intensified preparations, including heightened vigilance and enforcement. Commissionerate Police in Bhubaneshwar has also ramped up checks to maintain law and order during the celebrations.
“The minister's warning underscores the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and disciplined environment for all revelers. Our government has always stood for containing illegal liquor sales that often lead to disastrous incidents,” said BJP state unit spokesperson B.N. Tripathy.
