Surge in CL-5 licences due to liquor sales crackdown

Mangaluru has seen a significant increase in the issuance of CL-5 liquor licenses following a crackdown on illegal alcohol sales in Dakshina Kannada. In 2024, 1,027 CL-5 licenses were issued, more than double the 502 licenses granted in 2023. The enforcement action started in October 2023 after some party organizers were caught serving military canteen and Goa-made liquor at a national event. This incident highlighted the use of such liquor in private gatherings, resulting in lost revenue for the state and violations of Karnataka's Excise Rules. As a result, the excise department has tightened regulations for events serving alcohol. Organizers must now obtain a CL-5 license, which costs Rs 11,500, and buy liquor from local licensed shops. Officials are checking venues to ensure compliance and require organizers to show purchase receipts. However, many vendors and event organizers find the licensing process difficult. They say the online system is complicated, and licenses are often issued just before events, forcing them to visit the excise office repeatedly. This has led to frustrations, with some claiming it causes embarrassment during checks at social gatherings. TM Srinivas, deputy commissioner of the excise department in Dakshina Kannada, stated that they are strictly enforcing CL-5 license rules at all events. He acknowledged calls for a simpler process but noted that any changes would be up to the government. The department's efforts have helped reduce the influx of out-of-state liquor.