Rampant Illicit Liquor Brewing Continues in Rautahat Despite Police Crackdowns
Authorities in Rautahat district have expressed serious concern over the continued production and sale of illicit homemade liquor, commonly known as rakshi, despite repeated police operations. According to local law enforcement officials, the district remains one of the most affected areas for illegal alcohol brewing in Nepal.
During coordinated crackdowns conducted over a one-month period, Rautahat police seized approximately 7,000 liters of illicitly produced alcohol from various locations across the district. One of the major operations took place in Garuda Municipality–7, where officers confiscated around 200 liters of homemade liquor during a raid. However, suspects involved in the operation managed to flee before arrests could be made.
Police officials reported that hundreds of small-scale illicit brewing sites continue to operate in rural and semi-urban parts of Rautahat. Poverty, lack of alternative income opportunities, and strong demand for cheap alcohol have been identified as key drivers of the illegal trade. In addition to local consumption, authorities believe a significant portion of the illicit liquor is smuggled across the open border into neighboring Indian states where alcohol is prohibited.
Public health experts warn that unregulated homemade liquor often contains unsafe levels of contaminants, posing severe health risks to consumers. Past incidents in the Terai region have shown that consumption of such alcohol can result in poisoning, long-term health complications, and fatalities.
Despite intensified enforcement efforts, police acknowledge that the challenge persists due to limited resources, difficult terrain, and community dependence on illicit brewing for livelihood. Authorities have emphasized the need for stronger inter-agency coordination, alternative economic programs, and public awareness campaigns to effectively curb illegal liquor production.
Sources (EN):
Kathmandu Post – Production, sale of hooch go unchecked in Rautahat https://kathmandupost.com/national/2019/04/08/production-sale-of-hooch-go-unchecked-in-rautahat