Rajasthan News / Rajasthan Excise Department finds major irregularities, with revenue worth Rs 195 crore missing

A major scam has been uncovered in the Rajasthan Excise Department. According to a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), revenue worth ₹195 crore was lost in liquor-related collections. Irregularities were found in 72% of the 7,512 cases investigated in 2021-22. The CAG has recommended strict action by the government.

Rajasthan News: Sensational news has emerged from Rajasthan, shaking the state's Excise Department. The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)'s latest report has revealed the disappearance of ₹195 crore in liquor-related revenue. This case presents a serious example of departmental negligence, disregard for rules, and systemic flaws. Let's understand the entire matter in detail.

What's in the CAG report?

The Comptroller and Auditor General found widespread irregularities in the Excise Department. Gross negligence was observed in the collection of liquor-related license fees, fines, and interest. The CAG has recommended the government take strict action and ensure the recovery of this ₹195 crore amount. The department has also been directed to strictly follow policies, regulations, and rules.

How big is the scam?

According to the CAG report, 7,512 cases involving 2,663 liquor contractors were investigated during the year 2021-22. Irregularities were found in 72% of these cases, or 5,391. These irregularities have resulted in significant financial losses to the state. The key points are as follows:

Shortfalls in excise and license fees: A loss of ₹100.96 crore was incurred in 1,908 cases.
Under-collection of additional fees: A loss of ₹72.88 crore was recorded in 1,954 cases.
Negligence in foreign liquor and beer: A loss of ₹15.25 crore was incurred in 1,190 cases.
Losses due to spoilage of liquor and beer: An additional loss of ₹3.4 million.
Negligence in delayed payments: ₹5.98 crore was not recovered in 267 cases.

System flaws exposed

The report also revealed numerous discrepancies in the department's computerized systems and ledger reports. These flaws not only impacted the recovery process but also facilitated unfair benefits to contractors. This situation raises serious questions about the functioning of the Excise Department.

Increased Pressure on the Government

This CAG report has put the Rajasthan government in the dock. With such significant irregularities uncovered in a major revenue source like liquor, the government is expected to take swift and strict action. Experts believe that in addition to taking action against the officials responsible, the system needs to be streamlined to prevent such irregularities in the future.