No more car-o-bar in Delhi: Drinking in public places can now land you in jail

The Kejriwal government has declared war on “car-o-bar”. Starting November 7, those found drinking in public places will face hefty fines and a jail term, as the government plans to strictly enforce the Delhi excise act.

Put the cap on the bottle, at least in public places, or be prepared to go to jail.

Those found drinking in public places in New Delhi will face hefty fines and a jail term. (Representative image/Shutterstock)

The Kejriwal government has declared war on “car-o-bar”. Starting today, those found drinking in public places will face hefty fines and a jail term, as the government plans to strictly enforce the Delhi excise act.

The fine for drinking is Rs 5,000. But, if the offender creates nuisance then the fine will be double with three months in jail.

“If someone is found consuming alcohol in public places and near liquor shops, we will get them arrested under the excise act from November 7,” deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia last week.

“Car-o-bar” is essentially Delhi’s way of drinking -- in a car with friends or alone, mostly outside a liquor vend or an eating joint. It is a favourite of those looking for a quick drink after a day’s work or youngsters who find bars expensive.

Ahead of the crackdown, the government would run a campaign to dissuade people from drinking in open and make them aware of the rules, Sisodia said.