Bubbly caught in Maha bubble

Technically,although it is permissible to import two bottles of liquor,once a person steps out of the airport in Mumbai,he/she can be prosecuted for possession of the liquor unless the liquor permit is produced.

When did it come into force? The Bombay Prohibition Act came into force on June 16,1949. Liquor permits are issued under Rule 70-D of the Bombay Foreign Liquor Rules 1953,which followed.

What is the punishment for consuming or purchasing liquor without a permit? The offence is cognisable and bailable. There are various penalties depending on the circumstances and factors,like the quantity of liquor involved. The offence can attract a maximum fine of Rs 50,000 and imprisonment up to five years.

How is the law enforced? In reality,the law exists only on paper and is rarely enforced.

Restaurants,bars and liquor stores do not ask customers for permits in order to consume or purchase liquor. The charge is usually slapped only as an added section in cases of unruly behaviour by an individual under the influence of alcohol. The Maharashtra Police or the Vigilance and Enforcement branch of the Maharashtra Excise Department are the authorities who have powers to take action under the law. In 1991,a state-level squad known as the Flying Squad Maharashtra State (FSMS) was created under the Commissioner of State Excise to coordinate between police and and the state Excise while conducting raids,and to register offences under the Bombay Prohibition Act.

There are 44 flying squads in the state. While Mumbai City,Mumbai Suburban,Thane,Raigad,Pune,Ahmednagar,Nashik and Nagpur have two flying squads,the other 27 districts have one each. A flying squad comprises an inspector,two sub-inspectors,three constables and a driver.

How does one apply for a liquor permit? Anyone above 25 years of age seeking a liquor permit can apply to the district collector,the superintendent of State Excise or any officer authorised by the state government. The liquor permits are issued for one year at a cost of Rs 25 and Rs 75 for a period of three years. The permits can be obtained immediately on submission of the application.