This circular addresses concerns regarding the illegal misuse of empty liquor bottles, labels, corks/caps, and alcohol-based extracts and flavours. The directive aims to prevent these materials from being used in the manufacture, bottling, or sale of spurious or illicit liquor. Such misuse undermines legitimate trade, poses public health risks, and enables tax evasion. The circular likely mandates enhanced monitoring, record-keeping, and disposal protocols for these materials by licensed manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers.

Key Details:

• Target Materials: Empty bottles, labels, bottle caps/corks, alcohol extracts, and flavouring substances
• Primary Concern: Prevention of their misuse in illegal liquor manufacturing or counterfeiting of branded products
• Likely Measures:
  • Strict accounting and disposal records for empty bottles and packaging materials
  • Destruction protocols for damaged/returned bottles and labels
  • Verification of extracts and flavours used in food/beverage industries to prevent diversion
  • Enhanced inspection and detection mechanisms by excise officials
  • Applicable Parties: Manufacturers (Form I, PLL, BRL), wholesalers, retailers, and processors using alcohol-based ingredients
  • Enforcement Focus: Detection of illegal activities under relevant BPA provisions

  Effective Date: From date of circular issuance (specific date not provided in excerpt)

  Legal Basis: Powers under the Bombay Prohibition Act, 1949 and Maharashtra Liquor Rules for regulation and supervision of licensed activities

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  Note: The full text of the circular would contain specific operational instructions, reporting formats, penalty provisions for non-compliance, and timelines for implementation. Licensees should obtain and comply with the complete circular from the State Excise Department.