The Karnataka government is preparing to introduce stricter laws to crack down on the illegal liquor trade, which has been a long-standing issue in the state.
Excise Minister R B Timmapur informed the Assembly that new legal measures are being drafted to deal more effectively with illicit liquor production and sales.
Focus on dangerous ingredients
A key part of the plan is to take strong action against the use of chloral hydrate powder—a harmful substance often used in making illegal liquor. The government is working to bring this chemical under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, which would allow for much stricter penalties.
Officials say the powder is highly dangerous and is often smuggled in small quantities from neighbouring Andhra Pradesh to produce large volumes of illicit alcohol.
New laws after decades
The minister pointed out that no major updates have been made to liquor laws in the past 60–65 years, which has weakened enforcement. To address this, the government has set up a committee led by retired IAS officer K P Krishnan to recommend stronger legal provisions.
Ongoing enforcement efforts
The Excise and Police departments are already working to control illegal liquor sales and register cases. However, the government believes stricter laws and harsher punishments are necessary to effectively tackle the problem.
Conclusion
With these proposed changes, Karnataka aims to strengthen its legal framework, curb the use of harmful substances in illicit liquor, and improve public safety.
