The Himachal Pradesh Assembly has passed the Himachal Pradesh Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2024, to combat the rising issue of illicit liquor trade, introducing stringent penalties and enhanced enforcement measures. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu highlighted the urgent need for tougher regulations, citing the tragic loss of lives due to illegal liquor sales. The amendments affect 13 sections of the original State Excise Act, allowing for confiscation of properties acquired through illicit means and imposing fines ranging from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh for various offences. All offences related to illicit liquor manufacturing, trafficking, and consumption are now classified as cognizable, enabling warrantless arrests. Furthermore, harsher penalties target selling alcohol to minors and employing them in related activities. These measures aim to streamline enforcement and improve the effectiveness of investigations and trials in excise offences.