Liquor buyers allege overcharging despite Karnataka govt.’s price cut
Consumers in Bengaluru are alleging that liquor outlets are not passing on the benefits of a recent price cut by the Karnataka government. Despite a new excise policy aimed at reducing prices for several premium liquor brands, many bars and shops continue to charge higher rates. The Excise Department has been alerted to these complaints and is conducting inspections to ensure compliance with the new pricing structure.
- ▪The Karnataka government reduced prices of several premium liquor brands under a new excise policy.
- ▪Consumers claim that many outlets are still charging old prices despite the government's price cut.
- ▪The Excise Department is conducting surprise inspections to ensure compliance with the revised pricing.
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Despite the Karnataka government reducing the prices of several premium liquor and beer brands under its revamped excise policy, many consumers in Bengaluru alleged that bars, pubs and MRP liquor outlets continue to charge the old, higher rates.The State government introduced a new excise duty regime on May 11, under which alcohol is taxed based on Alcohol in Beverage (AIB) content rather than category. The move, announced by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in the 2026-27 State Budget, makes Karnataka the first State in India to levy excise duty based on alcohol content.While beverages with higher alcohol content have become more expensive, prices of several premium beers and liquor brands have reportedly fallen by up to 25%.However, customers claim that the benefits of the price reduction…
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