Dakshina Kannada, once known for rampant hooch brewing, has seen a significant reduction in such activities due to long-standing operations by the excise department. However, some isolated cases still occur across the district, primarily for personal consumption. According to excise officials, they continue to monitor and raid these locations, taking legal action whenever they receive information about illicit liquor production.
A recent raid in Bantwal taluk resulted in the seizure of 55 liters of jaggery wash, 1.5 liters of illicit liquor, and materials used for brewing hooch. One person was arrested in connection with the incident. The largest seizure of hooch materials occurred during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, when a significant quantity was recovered from a house in Ammunje.
Earlier, hooch was produced on a commercial scale, but today, it is mostly brewed for personal use, often increasing during the festival and cashew seasons, when many brew cashew liquor. An excise inspector noted that while raids are regular, individuals involved in brewing still exist, although most of them are now engaged in different activities, such as working abroad or in other professions.
In the past, areas like Mangaluru’s islands or “kudurus” were notorious for brewing hooch. Over time, consistent raids and legal actions have led to a decline in these activities. Many former bootleggers have aged or retired from the illegal trade. According to TM Srinivas, Deputy Commissioner of the Excise Department, the department continues to raid locations when complaints arise, destroying any seized wash. “The incidents have reduced significantly compared to previous years,” he stated.
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