Bhubaneswar, Sept. 23 -- The Odisha government has clarified that it has no proposal to open new liquor shops in the state. This came after certain sections misrepresented statements made by Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan during the recent Assembly session.
The State Excise Commissioner stated the government has neither any plan nor proposal to open new liquor shops at present or in the near future.
As per Section 26 of the Excise Policy, liquor shops are strictly prohibited within 500 meters of educational institutions, 300 meters of religious places, and 100 meters of public bathing ghats.
"Any reported violation invites immediate departmental action," he stated.
Officials further stressed that liquor cannot be sold near scho...