Gangolli, August 29, 2025 – In response to a request from the Udupi District Police Superintendent (Letter No. 175(11-1)/SB/General/Ganesh.BB/UG/2025, dated August 28, 2025), District Collector and Magistrate Swarupa T.K. has issued an order under the Karnataka Excise Act, 1965, Section 21, and Karnataka Excise (Sale of Indian and Foreign Liquors) Rules, 1968, Rule 3, prohibiting liquor sales in Gangolli, Gujjadi, Trasi, and Hosadu villages within the Gangolli Police Station limits. The ban, effective from 2:00 PM to midnight on August 31, 2025, coincides with the Ganesh Visarjan procession starting at 4:00 PM from Kalekar Math, Gangolli, passing through sensitive areas like Nadupalli Masjid, Post Office, and Mel Gangolli, before concluding at the Panchagangavali River for idol immersion.

The order aims to maintain law and order in the communally sensitive Gangolli area, where minority communities operate commercial establishments and reside in the town center. The police highlighted the risk of disturbances if bars and wine shops remain open, citing potential alcohol-fueled disruptions during the procession. The ban covers all licensed bars, restaurants, and wine shops within an 8 km radius of Gangolli, including specific areas in Gujjadi (Nayakawadi, Gujjadi Beri), Hosadu (Mullikatte, Arate, Divalli, Ganada Makki), and Trasi (Trasi, Hosapete, Anagodu, Movadi).

The District Collector has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Excise, Udupi, to enforce the order immediately, with copies sent to the Police Superintendent, Assistant Commissioner (Kundapur), and Tahsildars of Kundapur and Byndoor for compliance.