Action to be taken over promotion or sale of liquor through social media, says DC

The meeting was attended by senior officers of the Excise Department along with vendors and other stakeholders from the excise trade.

During the interaction, the stakeholders raised concerns over procedural and operational challenges, particularly delays in approval of product labels and processing of applications for new licences, stating that such pendency was adversely impacting business operations. They sought simplification of procedures and time-bound disposal of pending cases.

The stakeholders also suggested measures to promote beverages with low liquor content, especially beer, to encourage responsible consumption and strengthen lawful trade. It was proposed that Chandigarh may consider adopting models followed in states like Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, including low-cost licences for beer sales to enhance availability and boost revenue.

Another suggestion discussed was allowing the use of temporary sheds as liquor vends on government land on a rental basis, which would help vendors function in a more organised manner and generate additional revenue for the Chandigarh Administration.

Yadav assured the stakeholders that their suggestions would be examined and incorporated, wherever feasible, while framing the Excise Policy 2026–27, keeping public interest, revenue considerations and ease of doing business in focus.
Taking serious note of pendency, the DC directed the Excise Department to clear all pending cases related to grant of new licences and approval of labels within one week.