Health (liquor) permit holders in Ahmedabad are upset over a hike in the annual permit fee and a reduction in the monthly liquor quota for some applicants. The annual fee was increased from Rs 20,000 to Rs 25,000 in November 2025, while several permit holders, particularly those aged 50 and above, say their monthly quota has been reduced from four units to three.
Permit issuance at Asarwa Civil Hospital resumed about one-and-a-half months ago after being suspended following a liquor permit scam reported at the hospital. Sources said the changes in fees and quotas have led to resentment among permit holders, while allegations have also emerged that agents involved in illegal activities may be taking advantage of the situation.
Permit Work Limited to Two Days a Week
Permit-related work resumed in June after the suspension, with the hospital also clearing a backlog of applications. Permit holders said the process has changed, with permit-related work now being handled only on Tuesdays and Thursdays, resulting in long waiting times.
A 52-year-old businessman from Navrangpura, who has held a permit for six years, said he paid Rs 20,000 last year and was allowed four units a month. During his recent renewal, he was charged Rs 25,000 but was granted only three units.
Another permit holder, whose renewal was delayed after the scam, said he was also given three units instead of four after his permit was renewed. He alleged that an agent demanded an additional Rs 3,000 to increase the quota to four units.
Earlier, applicants aged 50 and above generally paid an annual fee of Rs 20,000 and were granted four units a month.
Dr S K Zaveri, the medical officer handling liquor permit-related work, said the permit fee was increased by Rs 5,000 in November 2025 in accordance with government rules. He clarified that the revised fee applies to new permits.
Medical Report Determines Quota
Zaveri said applicants aged 50 and above can be approved for a minimum of three and a maximum of four units.
However, the final number of units depends on the applicant’s physical condition and medical report and is decided at the discretion of the medical officer.