Srikakulam's "Liquor Festival": Rs 12 Crore Sales During Sankranti

• Srikakulam district recorded unprecedented liquor sales of Rs 12.26 crore during the three-day Sankranti festival.
• Liquor worth Rs 11.65 crore was moved from the Etcherla depot in just two days, anticipating high demand.
• Sales surged across 176 private liquor shops and 9 bars, especially in urban centers and near cockfight venues.
• Despite a government order increasing prices, shops illegally charged Rs 10-80 above MRP, exploiting festival demand.
• Illegal belt shops proliferated in villages, selling liquor on roadsides and near cockfight areas, with alleged inaction from the Excise Department.

Why It Matters: Srikakulam witnessed record liquor sales during Sankranti, fueled by illegal overcharging and unchecked belt shops.