Pune: The Pune District Excise Department has significantly stepped up its campaign against illegal liquor activities, including its production, transport, and sale. In a notable achievement, the department generated a revenue of ₹2,198.33 crore in the financial year 2024–25 — a 9.85% rise compared to the previous year.
Under the leadership of Dr. Rajesh Deshmukh, Commissioner of State Excise, along with District Collector Jitendra Dudi, Divisional Commissioner Sagar Thomkar, and Superintendent of the Excise Department Charansingh Rajput, the department has made major strides in both revenue generation and enforcement.
Between April 2024 and March 2025, a total of 5,995 cases related to illegal liquor operations were registered. As a result, 5,899 individuals were arrested, and assets worth ₹25.80 crore were seized, including 629 vehicles used in illicit activities. The department also reported a 40% surge in criminal investigations during this period.
Enforcement actions were also taken against licensed establishments. A total of 569 licensed premises were found violating regulations, leading to the permanent closure of four of them. Fines amounting to ₹1.86 crore were collected.
Further strengthening its crackdown under the Maharashtra Prohibition Act, 1949, the department proposed prohibitory measures against 577 repeat offenders. Superintendent Charansingh Rajput emphasized that strict action continues to be taken to ensure law and order. The department has also secured 299 bond deeds valued at ₹2.18 crore from habitual offenders to ensure lawful conduct. Additionally, nine proposals were filed under the Maharashtra Prevention of Dangerous Activities (MPDA) Act, 1981, one of which led to the externment of a repeat offender.
Moreover, 455 cases were registered for consuming liquor in unauthorized areas, with 1,250 individuals arrested and court fines totaling ₹8.19 lakh imposed.
Superintendent Rajput credited the department’s success to disciplined enforcement and teamwork. He also urged citizens to support the initiative by reporting any illegal liquor-related activity. Reports can be made via the toll-free number 1800 233 9999 or by contacting the Superintendent’s office at 020-26120321.
