Over 20,000 Bars Across Maharashtra Suspend Service Today In Protest Against Duty Hikes
The one-day strike, led by the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI), drew participation from over 20,000 establishments
Thousands of bar and restaurant owners across Maharashtra shut operations on Monday in protest against the state government's recent hike in liquor taxes and licensing fees.
The one-day strike, led by the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI), drew participation from over 20,000 establishments, including around 8,000 in Mumbai and 11,500 hotel-based bars statewide.
The protest follows the Maharashtra government's decision to raise excise duty on alcohol by 60%, increase the annual FL3 licence fee by 15% for the next financial year, and impose a 10% VAT on Indian-Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) sold at FL3 outlets.
The move, aimed at funding welfare schemes like the Ladki Bahin initiative, has sparked sharp opposition from the hospitality sector.
'This triple blow will force many establishments to shut permanently. Our members are fighting for survival," said HRAWI president Jimmy Shaw.
Shaw noted that the sector supports more than 20 lakh jobs and draws 15 crore tourists each year. HRAWI has warned that the new tax structure could result in over 4 lakh job losses, reduced tourist footfall, and a potential rise in unregulated alcohol sales.
As per revised pricing, a 180-ml bottle of country liquor now costs Rs 80, up from Rs 60–70.
The bar owners have also criticised the state's plan to issue 328 new liquor sale licences. Each liquor manufacturer is expected to receive eight licences.
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First Published:
July 14, 2025, 10:57 IST
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