Kalyani, May 26: Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari’s announcement about prohibition of liquor sale within 1 km of any schools and temples, has sent shockwaves through Bengal’s hospitality industry, triggering widespread panic over a potential blanket ban on liquor sales. Speaking after an administrative meeting in Kalyani on Tuesday, Adhikari declared that his government would strictly enforce the “rule of law,” asserting that no liquor licenses would be granted within a one-kilometer radius of schools, colleges, and temples.
“This government will run differently. There is no reason for any concern,” the Chief Minister assured. However, his brief statement has instead ignited massive confusion and anxiety across the state.
The political and economic panic stems from a glaring lack of clarity. The Chief Minister did not specify whether this strict one-kilometer restriction applies only to incoming applications or if it will retroactively scrap the licenses of existing retail “off-shops,” restaurants, bars, and historic social clubs.
Adding fuel to the fire, excise officials began prodding retailers to map out all educational and religious institutions within a one-kilometer radius. This has left business owners, who have already paid their renewal fees for the 2026-27 fiscal year but are awaiting physical licenses due to election delays, fearing the worst.
If implemented, Bengal’s policy would become the most draconian in India. Other BJP-ruled states maintain vastly smaller buffer zones: Uttar Pradesh and Assam enforce a 50-to-100-meter limit, while Odisha mandates 300 to 500 meters. Furthermore, Bengal’s existing policy already draws the line at 1,000 feet (roughly 300 meters).
Beyond the immediate threat to livelihoods, the state exchequer stands to lose a staggering amount of money. Bengal’s excise revenue, which stood at ₹18,850 crore in 2023-24, is projected to hit ₹23,000 crore this fiscal year.
While top restaurateurs are withholding official comments until a formal order is published, retailers have made it clear that if the government intends a retrospective shutdown, they will immediately seek legal recourse.