Ahmedabad, August 27: The last month’s hooch tragedy in Gujarat that claimed over 150 lives was the worst ever in the country, which forced the state government to launch a crackdown on the culprits. However, an undercover operation by Headlines Today revealed that hooch is doing even better business than before in Ahmedabad.
A month after the worst hooch tragedy in the country, hooch sellers are back in business in Gujarat. In fact, the illicit liquor trade is doing even better than before. Illegal booze is flowing as freely in Ahmedabad as Sabarmati.
Chief Minister Narendra Modi might have tightened the law against bootleggers, as they can now even get death under stronger prohibition laws but illicit liquor sellers are still laughing all the way to the bank making a mockery of Modi’s efforts.
Headlines Today’s undercover reporter exposed how easy it is to purchase a favourite tipple. Local hooch IMFL and even empty liquor bottles for recycling into new.
The thirsty souls of the city visit the Makarba and Sarkhej areas, where booze is sold with impunity. In fact, the hooch tragedy has been a blessing in disguise for the bootleggers. A pouch that cost Rs 10 earlier now sells for Rs 30.
Blame it on the authorities concerned who have been allowing the business of illegal liquor. Raids remain superficial and the illicit liquor consignments are usually moved before cops arrive.
Bottles meant for sale in Rajasthan are diverted into the state and sold at a heavy premium. Liquor sold to permit holders in the state is siphoned off into the black market. Alleged patronage of the state government from the beat constable to the higher ups allows the black market to thrive.
There’s a ready market for illegal booze in the state as people are addicted to the liquor despite knowing it can kill them.
So the land of Mahatma Gandhi and India’s Iron man Sardar Patel continues to be soaked in illicit liquor.
–Agencies