In view of Rajasthan polls; Punjab increases enforcement activities and vigil on unscrupulous elements

Chandigarh, October 16, 2023: In view of the upcoming Rajasthan Assembly Elections, Financial Commissioner, Taxation, Punjab Vikas Pratap on Monday held a meeting with the Excise Commissioner, Punjab Varun Roojam, and other senior officers of the Excise Commissionerate regarding the increase in enforcement activities and keeping a tight vigil on unscrupulous elements.

During the meeting, the Financial Commissioner, Taxation said that the Excise Commissionerate shall extend full support and cooperation for the conduct of peaceful and fair Assembly Elections in the State of Rajasthan. The smuggling of liquor being a serious issue, he directed Excise Commissioner, Punjab to take all the necessary and expedient measures. In light of the directions of Financial Commissioner, Taxation, Punjab, Joint Commissioner (Excise), Punjab has been appointed as Nodal Officer from the State of Punjab for overall monitoring.

Stationary check posts have been raised at all exit points at Fazilka, Muktsar, Mansa, Sangrur, Bathinda, Mohali, and Patiala in coordination with the DGP, Police, Police Department, Punjab. The Officers/Officials of GST Mobile Wings/SIPU have been involved to increase the vigilance. Round the Round-the-clock roasters of the Inspectors for stationary and mobile checking have been made.

Directions have been given to check all the Distilleries and Bottling Plants across the State to enforce and ensure compliance of all the regulations regarding track and trace stickers, holograms, QR codes, and mandatory requirements of permits and passes through the e-abkari portal. Further, directions have been given to check all conspicuous places, closed premises (factories/ godowns/ warehouses), dilapidated buildings, dhabhas and L-17s. Both Enforcement-1 and Enforcement-2 Wings of Excise have been directed to increase vigil in sensitive areas along the borders with the State of Rajasthan.

It is worth mentioning here that the Election Commission of India (ECI) has declared 25th November, 2023 and 3rd December, 2023 as poll date and counting date respectively for Rajasthan Assembly elections.