Date:26/01/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/01/26/stories/2008012650801000.htm

National

‘Liquor licensing to be made transparent’

Special Correspondent

Haryana to continue with draw-of-lots system for allotment of retail liquor outlets

CHANDIGARH: Haryana Excise and Taxation Minister Birender Singh made it clear on Friday that the monopoly of the liquor vends would not be allowed and the present system of allotment of retail liquor outlets in the State through draw of lots will continue.

Renewable licences

Presiding over a meeting of Deputy Excise and Taxation Commissioners (DETCs), he said there would be even more transparency and rationalisation and these licences would be made renewable.

He directed that the ahatas should be renamed and they should ensure hygiene and provide all basic amenities to the customers.

Reviewing at length the working of the DETCs, he directed that all-out efforts be made to achieve the targets fixed for the year 2007-2008.

Mr. Birender Singh also held a separate meeting with all types of excise licensees such as distillers, brewers, wholesale licensees of “Indian Made Foreign Liquor” and country liquor and bar licensees. He sought their views and suggestions so that these views could be incorporated into next year’s Excise Policy.