DG&IGP issues circular for stricter enforcement against underage drinking in Karnataka

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The police have been instructed to enforce a “No ID, No Entry” policy across the State. | Photo Credit: File photo

Liquor-serving establishments found serving alcohol to minors could face suspension or cancellation of licences, hefty penalties, and criminal prosecution, Director General and Inspector General of Police M.A. Saleem warned on Tuesday while issuing a detailed circular mandating stricter enforcement of age-verification norms across Karnataka.

The circular, issued a day after Home Minister Priyank Kharge directed the police to crack down on underage drinking, requires pubs, breweries, bars, clubs, lounges, restaurants, and all liquor-serving outlets to strictly verify the age of patrons before granting entry or serving alcohol. The police have been instructed to enforce a “No ID, No Entry” policy across the State.

Citing provisions of the Karnataka Excise Act and related rules, the DGP reiterated that liquor cannot be sold or supplied to persons below 21 years of age. The circular also prohibits the sale of alcohol to persons who are mentally unsound, those known or believed to be intoxicated, individuals suspected of involvement in riots or breaches of public peace, and excise officials, police personnel, railway employees and motor-bus drivers while on duty or in uniform.

Under the new guidelines, establishments must verify age through government-issued identity documents such as Aadhaar, voter ID, passport, driving licence or PAN card before allowing entry and before serving alcohol. Copies of the documents may be retained for future verification.

To strengthen enforcement, the police have directed all liquor-serving establishments to ensure CCTV cameras at entry points remain functional and preserve footage for at least one month for scrutiny during inspections and investigations. Regular inspections and surveillance have also been ordered.

The circular comes amid concerns over increasing consumption of alcohol and tobacco among adolescents. Police units have