Gautam Buddh Nagar, 23 February 2026
District Excise Officer, Gautam Buddh Nagar, Subodh Kumar, has issued an advisory urging the public to refrain from consuming liquor purchased from unauthorised or illegal outlets. The advisory, issued ahead of the Holi festival, highlights the serious health risks associated with illicit liquor and outlines regulatory requirements for the lawful serving and consumption of alcohol at social gatherings.
Addressing concerns related to public safety, the Excise Officer cautioned citizens against the consumption of liquor sold at illegal locations, whether in open form or sealed bottles. He stated that liquor sold through unauthorised channels may be hazardous and could contain methyl alcohol, a highly toxic substance.
“Liquor sold from illegal sources may be poisonous,” Kumar stated. “There is a possibility of methyl alcohol contamination, which is a lethal toxin. Consumption of such liquor can lead to loss of vision and, in severe cases, even death.”
Officials emphasised that the sale of open liquor or liquor packaged in pouches is strictly prohibited in the state. Citizens have been advised to purchase and consume only sealed liquor bearing QR codes from authorised and licensed retail outlets.
“The sale of liquor in open form or in pouches is not permitted,” the advisory noted. “Only sealed and QR code-enabled liquor sold through licensed shops should be consumed.”
The Excise Department further urged residents to remain vigilant and report any instances of illegal liquor sales. Authorities assured that the identity of informants would be kept strictly confidential.
“Any information regarding the sale of liquor outside licensed premises should be immediately reported to the Excise Department,” Kumar said. “The name and address of the informant will be treated with complete confidentiality.”
Officials stated that public awareness and cooperation are essential in preventing potential tragedies linked to illicit liquor. The department highlighted that timely reporting of illegal activities could help safeguard communities and prevent serious incidents.
In view of the upcoming Holi festival, the District Excise Officer also issued specific instructions to hotel operators, marriage hall managements, and club authorities across Gautam Buddh Nagar. The advisory stated that obtaining an Occasional Bar Licence (FL-11) from the Excise Department is mandatory for serving or consuming liquor at parties or gatherings.
“For any event involving the serving or consumption of liquor, it is compulsory to obtain an Occasional Bar Licence (FL-11),” Kumar stated. “Consumption or service of liquor without a valid licence will be treated as a punishable offence.”
Authorities clarified that applications for the Occasional Bar Licence may be submitted online through the official Excise Department portal at https://excise.up.gov.in/
. Applicants are required to complete the prescribed formalities and deposit the applicable fee to obtain the licence.
Officials warned that strict legal action would be taken against establishments found violating the regulations.
“If any case of liquor consumption or service without an Occasional Bar Licence is detected, legal proceedings will be initiated against the concerned hotel, marriage hall, or club operator,” the officer stated.
The Excise Department also informed that a dedicated control room has been established to facilitate the prompt resolution of complaints related to illegal liquor sales and manufacturing activities. Citizens may register complaints through the Excise Department’s helpline number 14405.
In addition to the central helpline, district-level contact numbers have been provided for reporting violations. Information related to illegal liquor sales or manufacturing may be communicated to Excise Inspectors through the following mobile numbers:
Excise Inspector,
Area 1: 9454466423
Area 2: 9454466424
Area 3: 9454466425
Area 4: 9454466426
Area 5: 9454466427
Area 6: 9454466428
Area 7: 9454466429
Officials reiterated that enforcement measures will be intensified during the festive period to ensure compliance with excise regulations and safeguard public health.
“The department remains committed to ensuring strict enforcement of excise laws,” authorities stated. “Public cooperation and awareness are critical to preventing unlawful activities.”
The Excise Department has urged citizens to exercise caution, comply with regulations, and contribute to maintaining safety and legality during the festive season.
