By Staff Correspondent
Bhopal: Residents of the posh Arera Colony in Bhopal have raised serious concerns over an allegedly illegal liquor shop-cum-bar being run by the Som Group on a residential plot. Despite repeated complaints, no action has been taken by the excise department, prompting residents to approach the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
Congress spokesperson Vivek Tripathi informed that on 28 July 2025, NHRC member Priyank Kanugo’s bench took cognisance of the matter under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. The state government was directed to ensure that the Bhopal District Magistrate investigated the complaint and submitted an Action Taken Report (ATR) within 15 days. However, even after a reminder sent on 19 August, the report was not filed.
Taking a stern view, the NHRC has issued conditional summons to the Excise Commissioner and Bhopal District Magistrate, ordering them to appear in person with the required report on 3 October 2025 at its Delhi headquarters.
Tripathi condemned the government’s inaction, alleging collusion between the administration and liquor mafia. He warned that if the shop was not closed and licences revoked, Congress would launch a mass protest.
