Maharashtra: Now, you can obtain liquor permit online

Now, hoteliers, event organisers and tipplers can get their liquor permits online instead of going to the excise department’s office.

Now, hoteliers, event organisers and tipplers can get their liquor permits online instead of going to the excise department’s office.

To obtain or renew the liquor permit, one has to log onto the excise department’s website and pay the permit fee. (Getty Images)

To obtain or renew the liquor permit, one has to log onto the excise department’s website and pay the permit fee.

According to state excise minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, the digital move is an attempt to ease the whole process.

“We want to make the whole system transparent and easier for the people,” added Bawankule.

According to the rules, one needs a government-issued permit to consume or possess liquor though the norms are not followed strictly everywhere.

At several places, liquor shops or permit rooms make customers buy the temporary permit while buying liquor.

The permit is also required for parties or events where liquor is served.

Event organisers have welcomed the move saying it will reduce corruption significantly. “We had to face harrowing time getting such permits. The online option will save time and boost the government revenues,” said Savio D’sa, a club and bar consultant, who organises events. He said many organisers hold parties without permits by bribing officials.

Hoteliers can also renew their licences online. They have welcomed the move, saying it will make things better.

“It is a remarkable achievement as it was a chaos when we went to renew the licences in March. Now, we can do it from our place,” said Bharat Malkani, Chairman, Hotel Transit Group.