Bhopal Dhabas turn illegal bars, serving liquor openly:Owners claim Police and Excise officials are ‘set’; Bhaskar sting reveals unchecked alcohol trade

In 2023, the then-Shivraj government had ordered the closure of Dhaba “Ahatas” (open courtyard seating), citing law and order concerns after alcohol was served on premises. However, this decision inadvertently opened the door for illegal liquor businesses in Bhopal. Taking advantage of the situation, the alcohol mafia established a thriving nightlife network in the city. Many Dhabas, once purely food and beverage outlets, are now operating as unauthorised bars. A sting operation by Dainik Bhaskar revealed that not only is alcohol being served openly, but owners openly claim that police raids and excise checks are no threat, asserting that “everything is set.” Dhaba operators offer alcohol on order, full property booking for parties, and even guarantees of avoiding police action. Natkhat Dhaba staff claims even if the Excise Dept team comes, they will handle it Case study: Natkhat Dhaba – “No fear of police” Located on Kolar Road, Natkhat Dhaba is one of the largest examples of this illegal network. Operator Virendra Rajput boldly claims, “There’s no such thing as a police raid. Even if an excise team comes, they only ask questions, and that’s it.” Virendra also revealed that the property belongs to former BJP MLA Dhruv Narayan Singh. He promises alcohol service until 11:30 PM, and private property can be booked for Rs 12,000 per day for parties, ensuring privacy and 24-hour access. Test of police response: Dial 112 call To verify these claims, a Bhaskar reporter called Dial 112 at 11:45 PM, reporting illegal alcohol service at Natkhat Dhaba. Although the police message indicated arrival at 11:55 PM, the team reached only at 1:05 AM, spent a few minutes talking to the Dhaba owner, and left by 1:10 AM—without confiscating alcohol or filing a report. This confirmed the operator’s claim: “Everything is set.” Bangarsia Dhaba- Branded liquor available on order A similar situation exists at Thakur Family Dhaba in Bangarsia. Operator Dhaniram Kevat claims that branded alcohol like RS or Old Monk is available on request. Private seating arrangements allow patrons to drink without fear of police intervention. Another operator, Pramod Singh Jadoun, openly stated that requested liquor will be supplied at lower-than-official rates, and police presence is not a concern, saying: “Even if police come, we manage until midnight.” Thakur family Dhaba-Serving liquor in private space Thakur Family Dhaba in Bangrasia is also involved in this business. It is a Dhaba in name only. In reality, it has become an illegal bar. Small private spaces have been created here so that people can drink alcohol without any fear. Operator Pramod Singh Jadon clearly said – You will get whatever liquor you ask for. He offered Old Monk for Rs 550, which is even cheaper than the liquor store rate. When asked about the police coming, the reply was – No one will come, we will manage until 12 at night. Structured supply network Sources reveal that these dhabas receive liquor deliveries twice daily—once at 11 AM and again between 6-7 PM—demonstrating a well-organized supply network for illegal alcohol in the city.