Composite shops in city continue to flout norms

Despite action by the excise department following a Hindustan Times investigation over two weeks ago, composite liquor shops in Lucknow continue to operate illegal drinking spaces.

- Animesh Mishra

LUCKNOW:

A recent ground check by HT revealed bar-like facilities yet again at multiple locations, including Lalbagh, Lalkuan and Ballu Adda areas just a few kilometres from excise offices and police stations. A composite shop in Lalbagh was found to have created a separate adjacent space where customers were openly seen consuming alcohol. The space lacked any licence or permission, yet provided seating and access for on-site drinking, in clear violation of excise rules.

A similar setup was found in Lalkuan, where customers were seen drinking openly in a lane next to a composite liquor outlet. At Ballu Adda, a composite shop owner had placed a curtain to hide customers drinking beer.