With Model Code of Conduct in force in view of the bypoll for Ponda Assembly constituency, the South Goa district Magistrate, Egna Cleetus has ordered a stop to the serving or selling of liquor at 11 pm in all the liquor bars, pubs, shops, clubs, hotels, eating houses, taverns, restaurants, shacks, provision stores, food joints or any establishment serving or selling liquor, etc. in the jurisdiction of Ponda Assembly Constituency.
The order issued under section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, to ensure free, fair, peaceful and orderly conduct of the entire election process, will come into force with immediate effect till the election Model Code conduct is in force. However, this order shall not apply to those establishments, provision stores etc which are otherwise required by law to be closed before 11:00 pm.
The order states that only the sale and service of liquor in all liquor bars, pubs, shacks, clubs, provision stores or any establishments in the whole of South Goa District shall be stopped every day by 1l:00 pm till election Model Code of Conduct is in force.
While saying that any violations of the directions may be reported to the Office of the District Election Office, the Collector has warned that if any liquor shop, bars, pubs, shops, clubs, hotels, eating houses, tavern, restaurants, shacks, provision stores, food joints or any establishment is found selling and serving liquor beyond the timings, during this period, it shall result in cancellation of licences and the owner or offender shall be liable for penal action under section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, Section 30 of the Excise Duty Act, 1964 and under other relevant provisions of laws in force.
The Flying Squads/ Excise Official/ Sector Magistrates/ Police or any other authorised Officers/ Officials shall act immediately in case any violation comes to their notice or reported to them and should forthwith report such cases to the Commissioner of Excise and/ or the Assistant Returning Officers concemed for further action in the matter, the order stated.
