Imphal: The Manipur Excise Department is grappling with a severe resource crunch, with acute shortages of manpower, infrastructure and logistical support hampering its drive against illicit liquor.
Against this backdrop, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Monday handed over five vehicles to the department in a bid to strengthen field operations. The Chief Minister flagged off the vehicles at a function in Imphal, stating that the addition would bolster surveillance, interception and seizure efforts under the State’s ongoing campaign against prohibited substances.
“These vehicles will enhance field-level monitoring and enforcement to a certain extent,” the Chief Minister said, reiterating the government’s commitment to protecting youth and building a drug-free Manipur. “We have reaffirmed our resolve to build a forward-looking and healthy society through firm enforcement and collective responsibility,” he added.
However, officials acknowledged that the department’s challenges extend far beyond mobility constraints. Of the 706 sanctioned posts, only 110 are currently filled, leaving the department critically understaffed. The shortage has forced the Excise Department to seek assistance from District Commissioners and Superintendents of Police during drives against illicit alcohol.
In addition to personnel gaps, the department reportedly lacks adequate infrastructure and operational support, further constraining enforcement efforts. Sources indicated that employees have threatened a “cease work” strike over demands for upgraded pay scales, compounding the operational strain.
The staffing and infrastructure deficits have significantly affected the department’s capacity to curb the production, distribution and sale of illicit liquor in the state.