Deputy CM Orders Action on Overpricing of Liquor

Complaints Trigger Government Review of Liquor Pricing

The Andhra Pradesh government has taken note of complaints alleging the sale of liquor at prices higher than the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) at several retail outlets across the state. The issue was brought to the attention of Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, prompting an immediate administrative response.

Complaints have been reported from multiple districts, including Kakinada district, indicating that customers were being charged more than the prescribed rates at licensed liquor shops.

Deputy Chief Minister Flags Rule Violations

After reviewing the representations, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan stated that selling liquor above the MRP is a clear violation of existing norms. He underlined that such practices not only breach regulations but also reflect poorly on the government’s administration.

He cautioned liquor shop operators against ignoring pricing rules and stressed that adherence to government guidelines is mandatory in the sale of alcoholic beverages.

Instructions Issued to the Excise Department

The Deputy Chief Minister directed officials of the Excise Department to maintain continuous surveillance over liquor outlets across the state. He instructed that strict action be initiated against shop owners found charging customers more than the approved prices.

Officials were asked to respond promptly to public complaints and ensure that enforcement mechanisms are active at the field level. The emphasis, he said, should be on preventing violations rather than reacting after repeated complaints.

Administrative Focus on Compliance

The directive places responsibility on district-level excise officials to intensify inspections and monitoring. The government’s position, as conveyed by the Deputy Chief Minister, is that irregularities in liquor sales cannot be allowed to undermine regulatory discipline.

With liquor sales being a tightly regulated activity, the government has reiterated that shop operators must follow pricing norms without deviation. The excise machinery is expected to submit regular feedback on enforcement measures and action taken against erring outlets.

👉 For more breaking news updates, in-depth reports, and real-time developments from across India, visit the City Buzz Daily homepage.