Fake liquor sales are on the rise in Gurugram, largely fueled by social media.
Experts Warn of Health Risks from Fake Liquor in Gurugram
Experts are raising alarms about fake liquor in Gurugram, which is often laced with methanol, posing serious health risks. Despite efforts by local authorities to combat illegal liquor sales, bootleggers are taking advantage of the festive Diwali season by selling adulterated alcohol online.
According to officials, these illegal vendors are using social media platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook to advertise heavily discounted liquor, including popular imported brands like Glenfiddich and Chivas Regal. While these typically sell for around ₹5,000 to ₹6,000, they’re being offered for prices as low as ₹3,000 to ₹4,000.
Bootleggers are using the anonymity of social media to their advantage, creating profiles and groups that blend in with legitimate activities. They often advertise door-to-door delivery and bulk order discounts, disguising transactions as “gift packages” to evade authorities.
Jitender Dudi, Deputy Excise and Taxation Commissioner for Gurugram West, warned that the illegally supplied liquor is frequently of low quality and may be dangerous to health. He urged consumers to avoid these tempting offers and buy only from licensed vendors to ensure safety.
Despite increased surveillance and account removals, bootleggers continue to find ways around traditional control methods, with many claiming they’re just meeting consumer demand amid high retail prices. One anonymous supplier stated they source stock directly from warehouses to keep costs low, while others argue they’re simply providing a service to those wanting premium brands at lower prices.
In response to the rising illicit trade, excise officials have ramped up monitoring efforts, including surprise inspections and checkpoints. They have already made several arrests and confiscated illegal liquor and transport vehicles. Officials are also working with social media companies to remove flagged accounts and encourage the public to report suspicious sales.
Health experts warn that bootlegged alcohol can cause severe health issues, including organ damage and even fatalities. Cases of poisoning have been linked to adulterated liquor, yet many consumers are still drawn to the low prices without understanding the risks involved.
Dr. Sanjay Goja from Narayana Hospital emphasized that methanol in fake liquor can lead to serious health complications, while Dr. Charu Dutt Arora from Asian Hospital warned that even small amounts can cause poisoning and irreversible harm. Both urged the public to prioritize safety over savings when purchasing alcohol.
