Is liquor completely banned in Guwahati? My neighbour is selling alcohol from his house in Guwahati, where do I complain?

Detailed Legal Analysis

No, liquor is not completely banned in Guwahati; however, there are specific regulations governing its sale and consumption. In Assam, the sale of liquor is regulated under the Assam Excise Act, 1910 and the Assam Excise Rules, 2016, which control the licensing, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages.

If your neighbor is selling alcohol illegally from their house, you can file a complaint with the appropriate authorities. Here are the steps you should follow:

• Identify the Regulatory Authority: In Assam, the Excise Department is responsible for the regulation of liquor sales. You can approach the local Excise Office for your complaint.
• Gather Evidence: Collect any evidence that supports your claim, such as photographs, videos, or witness statements that confirm the illegal sale of alcohol.
• File a Complaint: You can file a written complaint with the local Excise Office or the police station. Ensure to include details like the address of the offender, nature of the offense, and any evidence collected.
• Contact Local Authorities: If you do not receive a satisfactory response, you can escalate the matter to higher authorities:
  • Deputy Commissioner of Excise
  • District Commissioner
• Online Complaint: Some states have provisions for filing complaints online. Check if Assam offers this facility through the official Excise Department website.

Under Section 3 and Section 4 of the Assam Excise Act, 1910, selling liquor without a valid license is an offense punishable under the law. The penalties may include fines and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the violation. Additionally, you may also report such activities to the local police under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 269, which deals with negligent conduct with respect to spreading an infection, which could be applicable in cases where public health is at risk.

It is essential to act responsibly and follow the legal procedures to ensure that the matter is addressed appropriately.