Three Excise Sub‑Inspectors Face Action After Over‑pricing and Hoarding Allegations

Raipur, 20 August 2026 – The Chhattisgarh excise authority announced that three of its junior officers are now under disciplinary scrutiny following an Anti‑Corruption Bureau (ACB) probe that revealed multiple violations in the state’s liquor market.

Sub‑Inspector Santosh Kumar Narang of the Manendragarh‑Chirmiri‑Bharatpur circle was placed on suspension with immediate effect after the ACB dossier implicated him in the illegal issuance of licences and the facilitation of unregulated alcohol sales. The department’s senior officials described the suspension as a “zero‑tolerance” response to corruption.

In Balod, Sub‑Inspector Aasharam Shakya received a formal notice requesting an explanation for the detection of excess bottled liquor during a seizure at the village of Arkhar. The bottles carried holograms that indicated volumes exceeding the legal limit, pointing to possible hoarding and illegal resale.

A separate notice was sent to Sub‑Inspector P. Madhav Rao of Balodabazar, who is alleged to have sold imported spirits at prices well above the state‑mandated ceiling in a local composite shop. The complaint triggered a price‑verification audit, and Rao must now justify the pricing strategy within a seven‑day period.

Both Shakya and Rao have been asked to submit written replies, after which the department will decide on further action, which could include fines, demotion, or removal from service.

The coordinated response—one suspension and two notices—illustrates the department’s intent to enforce strict compliance with excise laws, curb illicit profiteering, and protect consumer interests.