West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has indicated that liquor shop licences will not be permitted within a one-kilometre radius of schools, colleges and temples, triggering uncertainty across the state’s hospitality and retail liquor sectors.
Speaking after an administrative review meeting in Kalyani, the Chief Minister said the government would uphold the “rule of law” and ensure stricter regulations around alcohol licensing. However, no formal government order had been issued till Tuesday evening, and it remains unclear whether the restriction would apply only to new licences or also impact existing retailers, bars, restaurants, hotels and social clubs.
The proposed move has raised concerns among liquor retailers and hospitality operators, particularly in Kolkata, where educational institutions and religious establishments are located close to many prominent dining and nightlife districts including Park Street.
Industry stakeholders warned that a blanket implementation could severely affect the city’s restaurant and bar ecosystem as well as state excise revenues. West Bengal currently follows a rule prohibiting liquor shops within 1,000 feet of educational institutions. The state reportedly earns nearly ₹23,000 crore annually through excise revenue.
Retailers’ associations said they are awaiting an official notification before taking a formal position on the proposed policy.
