Action follows violations involving serving liquor without licences at nightclubs and bars and illegal sale of liquor from other states
Departmental inquiry ordered; action initiated on the directions of Excise Minister Nitin Agarwal
Lucknow, October 2026 : The Yogi government has adopted a strict approach to curbing the illegal liquor trade and ensuring transparency in the excise administration across Uttar Pradesh. In a major action over the serving of liquor without licences at nightclubs and bars in Ghaziabad and the illegal sale of liquor meant for other states, the state government has suspended District Excise Officer Sanjay Kumar with immediate effect.
During the suspension period, Sanjay Kumar will remain attached to Prayagraj. The government has also appointed the Deputy Excise Commissioner, Meerut, as the inquiry officer to conduct a departmental investigation into the entire matter.
Proceedings have been initiated under the Uttar Pradesh Government Servants (Discipline and Appeal) Rules.
Acting on the directions of Excise and Prohibition Minister (Independent Charge) Nitin Agarwal, the government suspended Ghaziabad District Excise Officer Sanjay Kumar with immediate effect. The government has made it clear that accountability will be fixed at every level for negligence in departmental responsibilities and violations of rules.
Surprise Inspections Reveal Irregularities; Action Follows Investigation
Following complaints regarding nightclubs, bars and restaurants in Ghaziabad, a joint administrative team was constituted under the chairmanship of the Additional District Magistrate (City).
The team included the City Magistrate, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (Sadar) and Tehsildar (Sadar). During surprise inspections, the team detected several serious irregularities.
The investigation revealed instances of liquor being served without an occasional bar licence. It also uncovered the illegal sale of liquor that was authorised for sale in other states.
The Excise Minister said the District Excise Officer was prima facie held responsible for failing to effectively prevent these activities.
Along with the suspension, disciplinary and departmental proceedings have also been initiated against the officer.
