Karnataka’s liquor stores will remain shut on November 20, as over 10,800 licensed establishments join together to protest alleged corruption in the state’s Excise Department, according to Karnataka Wine Merchants Federation representatives.
The bandh aims to spotlight what the merchants say is rampant corruption and unfair competition that is hurting their businesses, news agency PTI reported.
Govindaraj Hegde, General Secretary of the Federation, stated that participation is expected to reach between 85 and 90 per cent among liquor license holders, marking a significant show of unity across the industry.
The government continues to issue new licenses, disregarding existing rules and creating a fiercely competitive environment that many of us cannot sustain, Hegde alleged.
He also explained that established shops, which together bring in approximately ₹38,000 crore annually, are struggling as a result.
According to the merchants, the unchecked expansion of licensed shops has compounded their challenges, with many small to medium license holders saying they are unable to compete or keep up financially.
The Federation claims that many businesses are being forced into an unsustainable cycle to run their shops.
This isn’t the first time Karnataka’s wine merchants have voiced concerns over departmental corruption and licensing practices.
However, this large-scale bandh marks a significant escalation, highlighting the industry’s determination to see meaningful reforms.
With this shutdown, wine merchants hope to not only draw attention to their grievances but also prompt a re-evaluation of licensing policies to foster a fairer, more sustainable business environment.
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