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

Detailed Legal Analysis

No, liquor is not completely banned in Ranchi; however, certain regulations govern its sale and consumption. In Jharkhand, the sale of liquor is regulated under the Bihar Excise Act, 1915, as amended in Jharkhand. Selling alcohol without a valid license is illegal and can be reported to the authorities.

If your neighbor is selling alcohol from their house without proper licensing, you can take the following steps to lodge a complaint:

• Gather Evidence: Collect evidence of illegal liquor sales, such as photographs, videos, or witness statements from other neighbors who can confirm the activity.
• Locate the Appropriate Authority: In Jharkhand, you can file a complaint with the local police station or the district excise department. The Jharkhand Excise Act, 2016, governs the sale and distribution of liquor in the state.
• File a Written Complaint: Draft a written complaint detailing the illegal activities. Include information such as the address of the offending party, specific times when sales occur, and the nature of the complaint.
• Visit the Police Station: Go to the nearest police station or the excise office in Ranchi and submit your complaint. You may want to reach out directly to the officer in charge of excise matters.
• Follow Up: After filing the complaint, follow up with the authorities to ensure they are taking action. Keep a record of your complaint for future reference.

Under the Bihar Excise Act, 1915, Section 3 outlines the prohibition of the manufacture or sale of intoxicating liquors without a license. Violating these provisions can lead to stringent penalties, including fines and imprisonment. Additionally, Section 24 of the same act provides for the seizure of illegally sold liquor and the premises used for such illegal activities.

If the authorities do not take action after your complaint, you can also escalate the matter to the district collector or approach the Jharkhand High Court for further legal remedies. It is advisable to act promptly to ensure compliance with the law and maintain community safety.