Early closing time for liquor shops, bars in Goa

The Goa Excise Department on Friday issued directions for an early closing time to places serving liquor in the State in view of upcoming elections.

The department has set the closing time at 11:00 p.m. for all liquor bars, shops, pubs, shacks, clubs, provision stores and establishments serving or selling liquor, with immediate effect, as long as the election Model Code of Conduct is in force.

According to the department, establishments serving liquor beyond the deadline during this period would have their licenses revoked. The owner of the establishment would also be liable for penal action under section 188 of Indian Penal Code, Section 30 of the Excise Duty Act, 1964 and other relevant provisions of laws in force.