UP Excise dept cracks down on illegal liquor trade, seizes 7.72 lakh litres and arrests over 5,500 in three months

Lucknow : Acting on the directives of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Uttar Pradesh Excise Department has launched a major crackdown on illicit liquor trade- registering nearly 30,000 (29,784) cases, seizing over 7.72 lakh litres of illegal alcohol, and arresting 5,559 offenders as of June 2025, in the current financial year. Among the arrested, 1,075 have been sent to jail, while authorities have also seized 35 vehicles used in smuggling operations.

Alongside enforcement, the department posted a record Rs 4,458 crore revenue in June 2025, compared to Rs 3,431.20 crore during the corresponding period last year—a 30% jump over last year.

Minister of State for Excise and Prohibition (Independent Charge), Nitin Agarwal, stated that a 15-day special enforcement drive was conducted between June 6 and June 20, 2025. During the campaign, 5,079 cases were registered, and 1,42,401 litres of illicit liquor were seized. A total of 924 individuals were arrested, of whom 189 were sent to jail. Three vehicles used in transporting illegal liquor were also confiscated. The campaign proved effective in curbing the illegal liquor trade.

In the previous financial year (2024–25), by June, 27,276 cases had been registered, and 7.38 lakh litres of illegal liquor were seized. During that period, 6,426 people were arrested, 2,062 of whom were sent to jail, and 50 vehicles were confiscated. This year, the number of cases, seizures, and revenue collection have all seen a notable increase.

The minister added that in the first quarter (April–June) of FY 2025–26, the department achieved 98.8% of its revenue target, collecting Rs 14,229 crore against the Rs 14,400 crore target. Compared to Rs 11,783.76 crore collected during the same period last year, this represents a Rs 2,445 crore (approx. 20%) increase. This success is credited to the department’s effective policies and stringent enforcement.

The Yogi Adityanath government remains firmly committed to eradicating the illegal liquor trade in the state. These actions not only contribute to increased revenue but also ensure the safety and health of the public. Through continuous enforcement drives and transparent policies, the Uttar Pradesh Excise Department is not only strengthening the state’s economy, but also working towards broader social welfare.