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Time of India

Golaghat excise department destroys 5k litres of illicit liquor, razes 24 dens

1 2 3 4 5 6 Dibrugarh: In a massive operation aimed at curbing illegal liquor trade, the excise department conducted sweeping raids across Golaghat district on Friday, dismantling more than two dozen illicit liquor dens and seizing large quantities of 'Sulai', a locally brewed rectified spirit widely consumed in rural areas and tea gardens. The operation led to the destruction of over 5,000 litres of illicit country liquor and the confiscation of manufacturing equipment. Raids were carried out at multiple locations, including Goroi Chuk, Gowal Gaon, Ratanpur, Na-Bhanga, Melia, Jitpur, Puspaban, and Boragaon, targeting the entire supply chain of the illegal trade. The operation specifically focused on raw materials, with authorities seizing hundreds of kilograms of 'Lali Gur' (molasses), a key ingredient in the fermentation process. T by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like How Ken Koh revived ailing family business in S'pore to produce the 'Rolls-Royce' of soya sauce CNA Read More Undo he crackdown holds deep significance for Golaghat, a district still scarred by a horrific hooch tragedy in 2019 that claimed over 100 lives, mostly tea garden workers. The victims had consumed contaminated Sulai laced with methanol and other toxic substances, including dry cell batteries, which were added to increase potency. Methanol, even in small quantities, can cause blindness, organ failure, and death. 'Sulai', a clear, colourless spirit traditionally brewed from fermented molasses or rice, has long been a part of the region's culture, particularly among tea garden communities. However, its unregulated production and frequent adulteration have turned it into a major public health hazard. Illegal brewers and bootleggers often target economically vulnerable workers, offering cheap liquor with devastating consequences. The low cost of illicit 'Sulai' compared to licensed liquor makes it attractive to daily wage earners, despite the potentially fatal health risks. "The 2019 tragedy was a wake-up call. Since then, we have intensified enforcement, but the trade persists because of demand and the high profits involved. Today's operation is a step toward breaking that cycle," said a senior excise official involved in Friday's raids. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Raksha Bandhan wishes , messages and quotes !