Illegal Liquor Trade Surges In Pune: 2,000+ Cases In 4 Months Spark Safety Concerns

Pune district has reported 2,050 cases related to the illicit liquor business in just four months, from April 1 to July 31, 2025. The sharp increase has raised serious concerns among citizens about safety and the need for better control.

Meanwhile, the Excise Department took action and arrested 2,501 people. 115 vehicles were seized, and ₹7.55 crore worth of goods and property were confiscated during this time.

Between April 2024 and March 2025, the department seized ₹25.8 crore worth of illicit liquor, including country-made liquor and banned liquors in the state. They registered a total of 5,958 cases and arrested 5,952 accused, seizing 620 vehicles.

Atul Kanade, Superintendent of the Excise Department (Pune Division), speaking to The Free Press Journal, said, "There are 4,500 licensed liquor businesses in Pune district. The department is continuously taking action against illegal activity. We have kept our eyes on key locations, and accordingly, action will be taken."

Meanwhile, citizens and social activists are demanding the removal of liquor shops near schools, gardens and other such places.

Anjali Deshmukh, an activist, said, “Many criminal cases, including chain snatching, theft, accidents, and others, occur due to people under the influence of alcohol. We can easily see many shops situated adjacent to public places. For example, near the railway station, people purchase alcohol and come to sit on the railway premises, leading to many theft cases. Passengers avoid sitting or standing nearby because of the nuisance. Another example is at Seven Loves Chowk, where two major parks have been made by the PMC, but it’s totally under the control of chain smokers.”

Neeta Pawar, a resident of Raviwar Peth, highlighted, “This is not just about crime but also about public safety. Why do the government and dedicated authorities permit them to open shops in such places? In most accident cases, the drivers have been found consuming alcohol. Authorities need to think twice before providing them with a licence. The rules should be stricter.”