Mangaluru: In response to rising tensions after the murder of Hindu activist Suhas Shetty on May 1 in the Bajpe area, the District Magistrate of Dakshina Kannada has announced a 24-hour liquor ban across multiple taluks to prevent further unrest.
The order was issued by District Magistrate Mulai Muhilan M.P., IAS, following a formal request from the Superintendent of Police. Officials cited fears that anti-social elements under the influence of alcohol might disrupt peace in the region. Suhas Shetty, the deceased, hailed from the Punjalakatte area in Bantwal taluk.
Liquor sale suspended under Excise Act
Invoking Section 21(1) of the Karnataka Excise Act, 1965, the administration has prohibited the sale of liquor and all intoxicants from 6:00 AM on May 2 to 6:00 AM on May 3, 2025. The ban is applicable in the taluks of Bantwal, Belthangady, Puttur, Kadaba, and Sullia.
The Deputy Commissioner of the Excise Department has been tasked with ensuring full enforcement of the ban. All liquor shops, bars, and outlets selling beer, wine, or toddy have been ordered to shut down during this period. Authorities have also warned against private storage of liquor, instructing officials to take strict action against anyone found in illegal possession or selling intoxicants without a licence.
Additionally, the Department of Information and Public Relations has been directed to ensure wide publicity of the ban through newspapers and media outlets.
The administration is urging public cooperation to maintain peace during the sensitive period following Suhas Shetty’s murder, which has already led to the imposition of prohibitory orders and a bandh in parts of the district.
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