Liquor to get costlier in Mahe; excise duty hiked

Mahe: Liquor prices have increased across the Union Territory of Puducherry, including Mahe, following a hike in excise duty. The price rise ranges from 10% to 20% across various categories of liquor.

Initially, the Puducherry government had proposed a steep hike of up to 50%, but the decision was scaled down to around 20% after strong protests from bar owners and the Liquor Merchants Association, who warned that excessive price hikes could affect sales.

The revised prices will apply only to liquor purchased on or after May 28.

The Puducherry Legal Metrology (Enforcement) Department has clarified that liquor outlets are permitted to sell liquor at the new rates only if the stock was bought from May 28 onwards. Selling old stock at revised prices will attract strict penalties under the Puducherry Legal Metrology (Enforcement) Controller Rules, 2011. Consumers can report violations by calling 04132 262090.