New Year’s Eve in Daman? Think Twice, Gujarat Warns

Valsad: Revellers planning a boozy New Year’s escape to Daman, the “watering hole” of Gujarat, are in for a rude surprise.

For the first time, they’ll face a gauntlet of 35 check posts across the border district of Valsad, manned by a combined force of local police and State Reserve Police. Their mission? To nab drink drivers and liquor smugglers trying to sneak booze into Gujarat, where alcohol is strictly prohibited.

For the Bacchus and the party lovers, Daman has been the  hottest destination to enjoy the New Year’s eve. The room tariffs in Daman hotels skyrocket to almost 150% during the Christmas and New Year festival to cash in on the huge rush of visitors from Gujarat and neighbouring Maharashtra.

Sources said there are scores of revelers from Surat and surrounding areas who prefer visiting Daman on the New Year’s eve and return to their destinations by late night or early morning.

“It’s going to be a tough time for the revelers,” declared Dr. Karanraj Vaghela, Valsad’s top cop. “From December 28th to 31st, our eyes will be peeled at every checkpoint.” His stern warning reflects the seriousness of the crackdown, aimed at keeping Gujarat’s roads safe and dry during the festive season.

The Border Police Conference held in Vapi on Wednesday assembled police authorities from Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Daman to strategize on maintaining law and order. Dr. Karanraj Vaghela, superintendent of police, Valsad, chaired the session, emphasizing joint vehicle checks across inter-state borders to enforce Gujarat’s prohibition law.

But it’s not just drivers who should be wary. Superintendent Vaghela has also threatened legal action against anyone hosting private parties with alcohol at farmhouses, resorts, or other venues without proper permits. “Don’t think you can just hide behind closed doors,” he cautioned.

Adding to the pressure, a recent Gujarat High Court judgement threw another wrench in the plans of those hoping to stock up in Daman legally. The court ruled that police cannot punish liquor shop owners or staff for sales made within their licensed premises, even if the buyer then gets caught in Gujarat. This, while welcome news for the Daman Wine Merchants Association, leaves the onus on smugglers and their clientele to bear the brunt of the crackdown.

Mahesh Patel, the Association’s president, summed up the mood: “While this judgement protects us from harassment, the fight isn’t over. We’ll keep pushing for a lasting solution that respects legal businesses in Daman while ensuring strict enforcement in Gujarat.”

So, for those dreaming of a boozy New Year’s escape to Daman, the message is clear: Think twice. The party might be in Daman, but the consequences could land you on the wrong side of the law in Gujarat.