JAMMU, Jun 8: Hindustan Shiv Sena has urged the Jammu and Kashmir administration to take strict measures against liquor vendors allegedly charging prices above the Maximum Retail Price (MRP), claiming that consumers are being openly exploited by what it described as a “liquor mafia.”
Addressing a press conference in Jammu, Vikrant Kapoor, State President of Hindustan Shiv Sena, appealed to Manoj Sinha to take immediate cognizance of the issue and cancel the licenses of vendors found guilty of overcharging customers.
Kapoor alleged that several liquor outlets across the Union Territory are charging consumers amounts higher than the prescribed MRP, causing financial burden on the public. He questioned the functioning of the Excise Department and expressed concern over the lack of action against the alleged violators.
He further claimed that the continued overcharging indicates possible negligence by the concerned authorities. According to Kapoor, tourists visiting Jammu and Kashmir are also being subjected to excessive pricing, which could adversely affect the region’s image as a major tourist destination.
Stressing the need for immediate intervention, he said that while shopkeepers dealing in other commodities generally adhere to MRP regulations, liquor vendors are allegedly charging arbitrary prices without fear of action. He maintained that strict enforcement measures are necessary to protect consumers and uphold transparency in the sale of liquor.
Kapoor urged the Lieutenant Governor to direct the concerned departments to conduct inspections, identify violators and initiate stringent action, including cancellation of licenses where necessary. He said such steps would help curb malpractice and provide relief to the common public.
Among those present during the press conference were Ramesh Gupta, senior leaders Parveen Gupta, Sunil Debgotra, Jeevwan Kumar, Rakesh, Baba Ram Kaith, Abhishek, Himanshu and Amit. Women’s wing leader Jyoti Devi and several party members also attended the event and supported the demand for stricter regulation of liquor sales across the Union Territory.