Sharp Decline in Liquor Shop Licence Applications in Adilabad

Applications for liquor shop licences in the erstwhile Adilabad district have significantly decreased, resulting in the Prohibition and Excise Department extending the submission deadline. The decline, which has raised concerns among local traders, is attributed to increasing demands for bribes from officials and the obligation to supply liquor to elected representatives and bureaucrats.

The situation has prompted the department to extend the deadline for licence applications from October 18 to October 23. According to officials, there were 3,892 applications submitted for 192 outlets across the Adilabad, Nirmal, Mancherial, and Kumram Bheem Asifabad districts, a drop from 4,356 applications in the previous licensing period of 2023–25. The decline highlights a troubling trend in a sector typically regarded as lucrative.

Traders have expressed frustration over the increasing financial burden associated with operating liquor shops. They report that many are now required to allocate substantial monthly bribes, often referred to as ‘mamools,’ to officials across various departments including Prohibition and Excise, police, revenue, and municipal bodies. One experienced trader noted, “Wine shop owners have no choice but to allocate at least Rs 2 lakh a month for bribes to officials and public representatives.”

The pressure extends beyond mere operational costs. Shop owners are often compelled to supply premium liquor for events organized by local Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) during ministerial visits. They are also required to provide alcohol to senior bureaucrats, including Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers, during official tours. This expectation reinforces a cycle where compliance is necessary for survival in the business.

The reality is stark for many in the industry. Most outlets struggle to keep up with the unofficial expenses, with reports suggesting that bribes can reach around Rs 10,000 per official depending on their rank in towns and mandal centres. One trader remarked, “If we refuse to supply premium liquor to elected representatives and bureaucrats, we face difficulties in running our outlets.”

With the liquor trade seen as offering quick returns, the financial demands have turned it into a heavy burden for many. The decline in licence applications raises critical questions about the future viability of liquor businesses in the region. As the deadline for submissions looms, traders hope that addressing the corruption issues may revive interest in the industry and encourage a healthier business environment.

The ongoing situation in Adilabad serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by many businesses operating in environments where corruption and bureaucratic pressures significantly impact profitability and growth.