Pune: State Excise Department Cracks Down On Dhaba Operators In Kothrud

In a swift operation, the State Excise Department in Pune Division has taken action against individuals involved in the illegal sale and consumption of liquor at Hotel Khind dhaba in Kothrud. During a raid conducted by a dedicated team, led by Sub-Inspector Pratap Bodekar and his colleagues, it was discovered that the dhaba operator, Yogesh Suresh Mathwad, was serving liquor to customers.

The raid resulted in the arrest of four individuals, including the dhaba driver, for being under the influence of alcohol. The investigating officer promptly completed the investigation and submitted a charge sheet to the court of the Judicial Magistrate First Class in Shivaji Nagar, Pune.
As per the court’s ruling, Yogesh Suresh Mathwad, the dhaba driver, was fined ₹ 1 lakh, while the intoxicated customers were fined ₹ 2,000 each. Additionally, those unable to pay the fine face a two-month simple imprisonment.

This operation comes as part of the State Excise Department’s efforts to enforce the law during the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, with a focus on curbing the production, transport, and sale of illegal liquor. Dhabas and hotels are being subjected to random inspections to ensure compliance with regulations.
Inspector S. Kadam of State Excise C Division emphasized that the sale and consumption of liquor at dhabas are serious offences, warranting strict action against offenders.