New Delhi (Agency): The Excise department in Kerala has amped up its measures as part of a special drive connected to the upcoming Onam festival. The enforcement actions have resulted in the seizure of drugs and illicit liquor worth over Rs 2.5 crore, according to an official statement released on August 24.
Initiated on August 8, the special Onam drive has led to over 7,000 cases related to drugs and illicit liquor being registered till now. “Hundreds of accused persons and vehicles used to transport the substances were also taken into custody,” the statement noted.
The special drive, which involves Excise officials across the state, is set to continue until September 5. One of the focus areas has been to prevent cross-border drug trafficking from neighboring states. The statement mentioned that “extensive inspections are being carried out” as part of this operation.
Kerala Excise Minister M B Rajesh lauded the efforts of the officials involved in this special drive. The minister has also directed that “stringent enforcement activities continue even after the special drive gets over.”
In addition to targeting illegal substances, the Excise department has also increased its scrutiny of licensed establishments. “Extensive checking is also going on at the border checkpoints and intersections,” said the statement.
The intensified enforcement actions are notable, given that the Onam festival is a major cultural event in Kerala. Traditionally a harvest festival, Onam also has social and religious dimensions that involve family gatherings and public celebrations. Given the social nature of the festival, the special drive by the Excise department aims to ensure a safer environment for the community.
