The Delhi government is poised to implement a new Excise Policy aimed at providing high-quality liquor to the capital's residents.
Excise Policy: The Delhi government is preparing for significant changes to the capital's excise policy. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta's administration has initiated the process of implementing a new and transparent excise policy in Delhi. The government aims to make the sale and distribution system of liquor in Delhi more organized, transparent, consumer-friendly, and socially responsible.
A high-level committee, chaired by Chief Secretary Dharmendra Kumar, has been formed to draft the new policy. The committee will submit the final draft to the government by June 30, 2025. This policy will not only focus on increasing economic revenue but will also pay special attention to crucial issues such as social equilibrium, consumer interests, and strict measures against illicit liquor.
Main Objectives of the New Policy: Transparency and Consumer Interest
According to Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the main objective of the new excise policy is to ensure liquor quality, make the sales process transparent through digitization, and improve the licensing system. Simultaneously, curbing the sale of illicit liquor and monitoring alcohol consumption in public places are also prioritized.
Rekha Gupta stated, "We want a policy that provides Delhi's citizens with access to quality liquor without clashing with social values."
Study of Best Models
The Delhi government's committee is also studying successful excise policies from various states across the country. Positive models from states that have shown good results in areas such as revenue growth, control over illicit liquor, and consumer equilibrium will be implemented in Delhi. The committee will conduct a comparative analysis of state policies to ensure that Delhi's new policy not only increases revenue but also provides a just and sustainable framework.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta sharply criticized the previous government's excise policy in her press conference. She termed it corrupt, one-sided, and anti-people, stating that the policy was drafted by disregarding rules to benefit certain private companies.
She added, "The previous government's excise policy neither adhered to transparency nor social security. This is why the policy had to be withdrawn, leading to the imprisonment of several former ministers."
Draft to be Ready by June 30
The committee working on the new excise policy will submit its proposal to the government by June 30, 2025. Extensive consultations with stakeholders, policy reviews, and administrative support are being arranged. The Excise Department will provide the committee with all necessary data and resources. Strict measures will also be taken to make the new excise policy corruption-free. E-tendering and digital tracking systems will be implemented in the licensing process. Licenses will be issued keeping in mind the location, time limits, and social impact of liquor shops.
Social security and public interest are the second major pillars of the Rekha Gupta government's policy. No aspect of the policy will negatively impact the health and safety of vulnerable sections of society, such as women, youth, and low-income groups. The government states that this policy will not merely be a revenue-generating tool but also a crucial document of social responsibility. Under this, a public awareness campaign will also be conducted to prevent alcohol abuse.
