Surat Airport Customs Sparks Prohibition Controversy

Surat : In a state renowned for its strict prohibition laws, Surat International Airport has landed in hot water over a controversial incident that critics claim undermines Gujarat’s dry state policy. Customs officials at the airport reportedly allowed a passenger arriving on a Bangkok-Surat flight to bring in additional liquor bottles, imposing a hefty 275% duty on two liters of alcohol exceeding the permissible limit. However, in a glaring violation of the Bombay Prohibition Act, they failed to notify the Gujarat Police of the infraction.

The incident gained public attention when the passenger, identified as Suresh Savaliya, shared the customs receipt on his Instagram reels. The post, which quickly went viral, warned travelers about the steep penalties for exceeding the legal limit of alcohol in Gujarat. What started as a cautionary tale for fellow passengers spiraled into a heated debate about the enforcement practices at Surat International Airport.

Violation of Prohibition Laws

Gujarat has maintained its dry state status under the Bombay Prohibition Act, which strictly prohibits the possession, transportation, and consumption of liquor. Even individuals with permits issued by the Gujarat Prohibition and Excise Department are restricted to purchasing alcohol solely from government-authorized outlets for personal use. Any violation, including unauthorized possession, is punishable under the law.

By levying duty on the excess bottles instead of notifying law enforcement, the Customs Department has been accused of indirectly enabling bootlegging. Critics argue that such actions send a dangerous message that illegal acts can be legitimized through monetary penalties. “This is not just about a fine; it’s about the sanctity of the law. Customs officials must act as gatekeepers, not facilitators,” said a local prohibition activist.

Public Outcry and Concerns

The Customs Department’s approach has sparked widespread criticism. Surat International Airport, already under scrutiny for frequent cases of gold smuggling, is now facing allegations of lax enforcement of prohibition laws.

“Charging a 275% duty might act as a deterrent financially, but it does not address the legal violation. The Customs Department’s failure to report the incident to the Gujarat Police compromises the very essence of prohibition enforcement,” said another critic.

The issue has also highlighted potential loopholes in how prohibition laws are enforced at entry points into Gujarat. While airports are equipped with stringent customs checks, incidents like this undermine public confidence in their effectiveness.

Implications for Enforcement

This controversy raises pressing questions about the roles and responsibilities of customs officials in states with unique legal frameworks like Gujarat. Should they focus solely on revenue collection, or do they have an obligation to uphold state laws, especially those with moral and social implications?

Experts suggest that the Customs Department should work closely with state law enforcement agencies to ensure that prohibition laws are respected. Coordination between agencies would not only deter potential offenders but also strengthen the state’s reputation for upholding its prohibition policy.