Kullu, September 3, 2026: As part of an ongoing campaign against the transportation and interstate smuggling of illicit liquor, the Excise Department (Kullu District) has seized 500 cases of beer—totaling 7,200 bottles. The seized beer bore the marking "For Sale in Punjab."
On the morning of September 3, 2026, at approximately 7:40 AM, a departmental team intercepted vehicle number HP-52-D-1812 for inspection during a routine checkpoint operation near DIET in Jarad (on the Kullu-Manali four-lane highway). A search of the vehicle revealed a large quantity of beer cases.
During the operation, the driver was asked to produce the necessary passes, permits, and other valid documents regarding the transportation of the liquor, but he failed to present any satisfactory or valid documentation on the spot. Preliminary investigation revealed that the seized beer was intended for sale in the state of Punjab.
Details of Seized Beer
S.No. | Brand | Quantity
1. | Tuborg Strong (650 ml) | 294 cases
2. | Budweiser Magnum (500 ml) | 100 cases
3. | Kingfisher Strong (650 ml) | 106 cases
| Total | 500 cases
The total seizure of 500 cases comprised 4,800 bottles of 650 ml and 2,400 bottles of 500 ml, amounting to a total of 7,200 bottles.
This operation was carried out by a team comprising Assistant State Tax and Excise Officer (ASTEO) Sh. Suresh Sharma, ASTEO (Banjar Circle) Ganga Ram, Excise Police Constable Ashok Kumar, and driver Suresh Kumar. Following departmental proceedings, an FIR has been registered at the Bhuntar Police Station, and the matter has been referred to the police for further legal action and investigation. The seized liquor and the associated vehicle have been taken into custody in accordance with the rules. Necessary action is being taken in the matter under Section 39(1) of the Himachal Pradesh Excise Act, 2011.