New Delhi: Gujarat has been a dry state for decades. Yet, several candidates and political leaders are reportedly promising to make it rain booze ahead of elections next month – all in return for valuable electoral support.
According to sources, demand for booze in the state has shot up in the run-up to the elections and alcohol mafia is attempting to cash in courtesy certain political figures demanding alcohol for party workers and vote bank. In a state where alcohol is strictly prohibited, a code word has been assigned to each variety of commonly-consumed liquor.
Kaala Khatta – Whiskey
Nimbu Paani – Vodka
Tonic – Gin
Syrup/Davaa – Rum
Gaathiya – Beer
Kishmish – Wine
Alcohol is being smuggled into Gujarat from adjoining states of Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. It has also been learnt that three districts in Maharashtra – Nashik, Dhule and Nandurbar – are particularly being eyed by alcohol mafia to smuggle in their consignments.
To outwit authorities, the alcohol mafia has also reportedly ditched the much-used route through Palghar district which has been under Excise Department’s watch. Instead, new entry points have been chosen and another set of codewords – these for logistical purposes – have been developed.
Kaka – Police
Mehmaan – Public
Shaadi – Delivery location
1 kilo – 1 crate
Fafra – Full bottle
Distributing alcohol to gain electoral favour is strictly banned by the Election Commission of India. Therefore, smuggling alcohol into Gujarat then becomes a crime on two levels.
India Today
