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

Detailed Legal Analysis

Yes, liquor is completely banned in Haridwar, and you can file a complaint against your neighbor for selling alcohol from their house.

Haridwar is governed by the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition Act, 1947, which prohibits the sale and consumption of alcohol in the district due to its religious significance and status as a pilgrimage site. The law aims to maintain the sanctity of the area and protect public morals. The relevant provisions include:

• Prohibition of Sale: Section 3 of the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition Act, 1947 states that no person shall manufacture, sell, or distribute liquor within the prohibited areas.
• Penalty for Violation: Under Section 7 of the same act, any individual found violating the prohibition can face imprisonment, fines, or both.

If you wish to report your neighbor for selling alcohol in Haridwar, you can take the following steps:

• Gather Evidence: Document any evidence of the illegal sale, such as photographs, videos, or witness statements. This will strengthen your complaint.
• Contact Local Authorities: You can file a complaint with the local police station or the local administration. The police are responsible for enforcing liquor prohibition laws.
• File a Written Complaint: Draft a formal complaint letter detailing the issue, including the address of the person selling alcohol and any evidence you have gathered. Make sure to include your contact information for follow-up.
• Approach the Excise Department: You can also reach out to the Uttarakhand Excise Department, as they oversee the regulation of alcohol in the state. Their contact information can be found on the official government website.
• Involve Community Leaders: If appropriate, you might also consider enlisting the help of local community leaders or organizations who may have more influence in addressing the issue.

By taking these steps, you can help uphold the prohibition laws in Haridwar and contribute to maintaining the area's sanctity. It is important to act responsibly and ensure that your complaint is based on factual evidence to avoid any potential legal issues.