Ten people died after consuming toxic illicit liquor in Pimpri-Chinchwad and Pune, leading to the suspension of five police officials and the arrest of two suspects involved in the alcohol supply chain.
A chemical explosion at Nippon Dynawave Packaging in Longview, Washington, killed 1 person, injured 10, and left 9 missing. The blast involved a ruptured tank containing 900,000 gallons of 'white liquor', with 90,000 gallons potentially remaining, posing ongoing safety risks.
EU liquor exports to Russia reached a record high of nearly €10 million in March 2026, a 52.5% increase month-on-month and a 2.6-fold rise year-on-year, according to Eurostat data cited by RIA Novosti.
National Conference (NC) in J&K has softened its stance on liquor ban, promising to ban sale and consumption following BJP protests. The party indicated support for a private member's bill on the issue, signaling a shift from previous rejections.
BJP workers protested in Srinagar, demanding a ban on liquor and marching towards Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's residence. They accused the government of hypocrisy, citing unfulfilled election promises.
NC President Dr. Farooq Abdullah opposes liquor ban in J&K, citing significant revenue generation, while Chief Cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and BJP support prohibition to combat drug abuse.
Tamil Nadu is closing 717 government-run liquor stores near places of worship, schools, and major bus terminals as part of a public welfare initiative.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has ordered the closure of 717 TASMAC liquor outlets within two weeks. These shops are located within 500 meters of places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stands across the state. The directive follows a statewide inspection aimed at stricter regulation and addressing public concerns.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has ordered the closure of 717 TASMAC liquor outlets within two weeks. These shops are located within 500 meters of places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stands across the state. The directive follows a statewide inspection aimed at stricter regulation and addressing public concerns.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah defended the region's liquor policy, stating shops are for those whose religion permits consumption. His comments come amid a 100-day anti-drug campaign, with calls to extend it to liquor. Abdullah highlighted his government's efforts to prevent youth from consuming alcohol, including not opening new shops.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah defended the presence of liquor shops, stating they cater to individuals whose religions permit alcohol consumption and that no one is coerced. He emphasized his government's policy of not opening new shops and ensuring existing ones were not near youth centers. This stance drew criticism, prompting further clarification from the CM.
The India-New Zealand free trade agreement is expected to increase exports of Indian spirits, particularly single malt whisky, by providing duty-free access and improving price competitiveness in the New Zealand market.
A heated argument outside a Gurugram liquor shop escalated into a physical altercation. A viral video shows a man slapping a woman multiple times after she allegedly hurled abuses. The woman retaliated, slapping him and pulling his T-shirt. Bystanders attempted to intervene. Police have taken note of the video but no formal complaint has been filed yet.
The Election Commission has seized over Rs 1,072 crore in cash, liquor, drugs, and freebies in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu to prevent voter influence during ongoing elections. Extensive surveillance teams have been deployed to ensure compliance with the Model Code of Conduct.
Bengal will experience an unprecedented 9.5-day unbroken dry spell over the next fortnight starting Monday due to upcoming elections. The Election Commission cited concerns over unusual spurt in alcohol sales and potential voter inducement. The liquor and hospitality industry faces estimated losses exceeding Rs 1,400 crore, with Rs 900 crore in Kolkata alone. The state has 5,000 bars and off-shops recording daily sales of Rs 80-90 crore.
Delhi High Court dismissed petitions by AAP leaders including former CM Arvind Kejriwal seeking recusal of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma in the liquor policy case. The judge refused to step down, warning that allowing politicians to judge judicial competence based on 'personal perception' would set a 'disturbing precedent'. Justice Sharma termed the recusal demand an 'act of surrender' and emphasized that a judge cannot be 'intimidated by a litigant'. The court will now hear the matter on April 29.
