In a move aimed at curbing underage drinking, the Karnataka government has now taken strict action. Home Minister Priyank Kharge has directed senior police officials to enforce strict age verification measures at pubs, breweries, bars, lounges, clubs, restaurants, and other places serving liquor across the state. This basically means no ID card, no alcohol!
Karnataka Enforces Strict Measures To Curb Underage Drinking
Karnataka is now getting strict about underage drinking and substance abuse among the youth of the state. To curb this, police will now enforce strict age verification norms at all establishments serving liquor in the state. Not just underage drinking, Home Minister Priyank Kharge has also announced this measure to prevent underage entry at these places.
He took to his official X account and revealed that a recent study covering 4,093 students in Bengaluru has raised serious concerns. One in three adolescents is at risk of health issues due to alcohol or tobacco use. The study also reported 33% alcohol use and nearly 18% tobacco addiction among students. This data is what made the minister take strict action.
Also Read: Karnataka CM Announces Free Bus Passes For Students, 10,000 Youth Clubs Across The State
No Entry Without A Valid ID Card
According to Home Minister Priyank Kharge’s X post, liquor-serving establishments will now have to check mandatory government-issued age proof of every visitor. If they do not have a valid ID or are underage, they will not be granted entry. According to India Today, the legal drinking age in Karnataka is 21 years and above.
Moreover, the state government has also made it clear that owners, managers, and license holders will be held directly responsible in case of any violations. Authorities have also been instructed to ensure strict compliance with CCTV surveillance requirements, including preservation of footage. Any place found serving alcohol to an underage person or violating licensing conditions will face legal action, too.
Police have also been directed to coordinate with educational institutions, RWAs, and other organisations to prevent minors from being exposed to alcohol, tobacco, and narcotics. Home Minister Priyank Kharge ended his post by writing, “Karnataka will follow a zero-tolerance approach against establishments that enable it. No ID, no entry and no underage drinking.”
Also Read: Karnataka Rolls Out New Alcohol Excise Policy; Will Booze Get Cheaper In The State?
We think that this is an amazing decision by the Karnataka government.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Pixelshot
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.FAQs
What is the legal drinking age in Karnataka?
The legal drinking age in Karnataka is 21 years and above.