Prolong illegal collection through exploitation of consumers by wine traders with impunity has undermined the might of the government in the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory. This is no longer a secret that over and above printed rate, the majority of wine traders are fearlessly selling liquor. This broad-day loot indicates either the whisky lobby enjoys patronage in the corridors of power or the law of the land does not apply to the liquor mafia. In both cases, this unchecked malpractice has decimated the government’s lofty claims of transparency, accountability and corruption-free governance. Eyebrows are also being raised regarding the alleged passive role posed gainst this open loot by Excise Commissioners who remain posted on this coveted seat post-re-organization of J&K in 2019. With protests and demonstrations by consumers and activists, the criticism against the government is gaining traction regarding their alleged silence on the issue of overcharging by wine traders.
There are instances when waking up from deep slumber, the district administration in collaboration with the concerned department showcases its action against some wine traders which has been perceived by several meaningful citizen as a symbolic exercise. Prolong soft approach against greedy wine traders has accelerated and strengthened the menace of overcharging which is rampant everywhere in J&K UT. There are accusations that the Excise Department and the J&K administration are not taking adequate steps to stop this overcharging. These accusations hold substantial weight as despite provisions for fines and license cancellation for such violations, the report card of those that remained posted on the prime post of Excise Commissioner since 2019 is abysmal. The administration in J&K UT which repeatedly claims to eradicate the evil of corruption in J&K UT post abrogation of 370 cannot afford to remain mute spectators to this loot of wine traders.
The Excise department which is already facing severe accusations for being prevailed upon by the liquor lobby in opening wine shops at choicest locations in the close vicinity of educational and religious places must come clean on allegations of turning Nelson’s eyes towards overcharging in the sale of liquor which predominantly exist in J&K UT. If there is no complicity, the government should not hesitate to initiate exemplary punitive action against erring wine traders. An effective enforcement mechanism to curb the exploitation of consumers is the job of the government which is supposed to be proactive in protecting consumers and upholding the law of the land. The silence of so called consumer activists on this pressing issue is also a matter of concern and raises question mark on their working pattern.