Uttar Pradesh’s iron-fisted approach to graft took center stage today with the suspension of Gautam Buddh Nagar’s District Excise Officer amid an overrating controversy. The decision reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating corruption from the excise sector, notorious for its high-stakes dealings.

The trouble began when multiple stakeholders reported suspicious overpricing in liquor shop allotments and renewals. Investigations uncovered a pattern where the officer allegedly hiked fees arbitrarily, diverting substantial sums into unofficial channels. This not only violated state guidelines but also undermined the revenue collection process.

The state excise department, acting on intelligence inputs and formal complaints, launched a discreet probe last month. Preliminary findings were damning enough to prompt immediate suspension pending a detailed audit. Senior officials confirmed that the matter has been escalated to the vigilance wing for a thorough examination.

Under CM Yogi’s leadership, UP has transformed its anti-corruption stance since 2017, with excise irregularities topping the list of priorities. This latest action adds to a series of high-profile suspensions, including those in Lucknow and Kanpur, aimed at purifying the department.

Experts point out that while suspensions are a good start, long-term solutions like digital tracking of transactions and stricter oversight are essential. The affected officer has yet to respond publicly, but the incident has sparked discussions on bolstering transparency in liquor business regulations. UP’s message is clear: corruption will not be tolerated.