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BENGAL EXCISE ACT, 1909

BENGAL EXCISE ACT, 1909

5 of 1909

8th September, 1909

An Act to consolidate and amend the Excise Law in Bengal. WHEREAS it is expedient to consolidate and amend the law in Bengal relating to the import, export, transport, manufacture, possession and sale of 1[intoxicants] ; AND WHEREAS, the Acts mentioned in Part 1 of the Schedule having been passed by the Governor-General of India in Council, the previous sanction of the Governor-General has been obtained, under section 5 of the Indian Councils Act, 1892, to the passing of this Act ; It is hereby enacted as follows :

CHAPTER 1 Preliminary

Section 1 Short title, extent and commencement

(1) This Act may be called the Bengal Excise Act, 1909;

(2) It extends to the whole of 22. Words subs. for the words "for the retail sale of any intoxicant:" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [West Bengal] ; and

(3) It shall come into force on such date as the 33. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [State Government] may, by notification, direct.

Section 2 Definitions

In this Act, unless there is anything repugnant in the subject or context,

(1) "beer" includes ale, stout, porter and all other fermented liquor 44. Clause (0 ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [, whether, solidified or not, made from malt and such other substances as the State Government may, by notification, specify in this behalf] ;

55. Words, figures, letters and brackets ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. (1a)* * * * *

66. Word, figure and brackets subs. for word, letter and brackets "clause (a)" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. (2)* * * * *

(3) to "bottle" means to transfer liquor from a cask or other vessel to a bottle or other receptacle for the prupose of sale, whether any process of rectification be employed or not ; and includes rebottling ;

(4) "Calcutta district" means

(a) the area within the local limits of the ordinary original civil jurisdiction 77. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898." by W.B. Act 5 of 1997, w.e.f. 1.4.74. [the High Court at Calcutta] ;

(b) the Suburbs of Calcutta, as for the time being defined by notification published under section 1 of the Calcutta Suburban Police Act, 1866, 88. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. * * * * ; and

(c) any other areas, in the vicinity of those referred to in sub-clauses (a) and (b), which the 8a8a. Words subs, by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [ State Government] may, by notification, declare to be included in the "Calcutta district :

99. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. Provided that the State Government may, by notification, declare to be excluded from the "Calcutta district" any area or any part of any area included therein under sub-caluse (a), sub clause (b) or sub-caluse (c) ;

1010. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. (4a)* * * *

(5) "Collector" means

(i) in the Calcutta district, the person appointed under section 7. 1111. Words subs. for the words, figures and brackets "under section 14, subsection (1)," by W.B.. Act 34 of 1965. [sub-section (2), ] clause (b), to exercise all the powers and to perform all the duties of the Collector in that district, and

(ii) elsewhere the chief officer in charge of the revenue administration of a district :

1212. Word "British" om. by the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. removal of any 13[intoxicant] from any such warehouse or from any distillery or brewery ; (6) "denaturant means any substance prescribed by rule made in this behalf under clause (3) of section 86, for admixture with spirit in order to render the mixture unfit for human consumption, whether as a beverage, or internally as a medicine, or in any other way whatsoever ;

1212. Word "British" om. by the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. removal of any 13[intoxicant] from any such warehouse or from any distillery or brewery ; (6a) to "denature" means to mix spirit with one or more denaturants in such manner as may be prescribed by rule made in this behalf under clause (3) of section 86, and "denatured spirit" means spirit so mixed ;

1313. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. (7) "excisable article" means

(a) any liquor for human consumption, or

(b) any intoxicating drug, but does not include medicinal preparations or toilet preparations containing alcohol or any intoxicating drug.

Explanation. In this clause the expressions "medicinal preparations" and "toilet preparations" have the same meaning respectively as in the Medicinal and Toilet Preparations (Excise Duties) Act, 1955 ;

1414. Sub-clause (uii) subs. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. Previous sub-clause (mi) was as under : "(vii) prescribing the accounts to be maintained and the returns to be submitted by licensees, and". (7a) "excise duty" and "countervailing duty" mean any such excise duty or countervailing duty, as the case may be, as is mentioned in 1515. Word subs. for the words "excisable articles" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [entry 51] of List II in the Seventh Schedule to 1616. Words subs. for the words "other disposal" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [the Constitution] ;

(8) "Excise Commissioner" means the officer appointed under section 7, 1717. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [sub-section (2),] clause (a) ;

(9) "Excise Officer" means the Collector or any officer or other person appointed or invested with powers under section 7 ;

(10) "excise-revenue" means revenue derived or derivable from any duty, fee, tax, payment (other than a fine imposed by a Criminal Court) or confiscation imposed or ordered under the Act or any other law for the time being in force relating to 1818. Clause (14) subs. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. Previous clause (14) was as under : "(14) for regulating the disposal of things confiscated under this Act,". [intoxicants] ;

1919. 'Explanation' renumbered as 'Explanation I' and 'Explanation II ins. by W.B. Act 50 of 1974. (11) "export" means to take out of 2020. Words subs. for the words "Calcutta Gazette" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [West Bengal] otherwise than across a customs frontier as defined by the Central Government;

1919. 'Explanation' renumbered as 'Explanation I' and 'Explanation II ins. by W.B. Act 50 of 1974. (12) "import" 2121. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. * * * * means to bring into 2020. Words subs. for the words "Calcutta Gazette" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [West Bengal] otherwise than across a customs frontier as defined by the Central Government ;

2222. Words subs. for the words "or by the process prescribed" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. (12ia) "India" means the territory of India excluding the State of Jammu and Kashmir;

2323. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. (12a) "intoxicant" means

(i) any liquor, or

(ii) any substance from which liquor 2424. Words subs. for the word "Bengal" by the Indian Independence (Adaptation of Bengal and Punjab Acts) Order, 1948. [may be manufactured] which is declared by the State Government by notification 2525. Sec. 92 renumbered as sub-sec.(1) of that sec. and sub-sec. (2) ins. by W.B. Act 40 of 1979. * * * to be an intoxicant for the purpose of this Act, or

(iii) any intoxicating drug ;

2626. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. (13) "intoxicating drug" means

(i) the leaves, small stalks and flowering or fruiting tops of the Indian hemp plant (Cannabis sativa L.) including all forms known as Bhang or Siddhi but excluding Ganja, Charas and any mixture, with or without neutral material, of any of the above forms of intoxicating drug, or any drink prepared therefrom within the meaning of section 2 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 ;

(ii) any other intoxicating or narcotic substances or any fermenting agent which the State Government may specify in this behalf by notification, such substance or agent not being narcotic drug or psychotropic substance as defined in section 2 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985.

(14) "liquor" means 2727. Sec. 92A ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [liquid consisting of or containing alcohol,] and includes spirits of wine, spirit, wine, tari, pachwai, beer, 2828. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "Section 261 of the Bengal Municipal Act 1884" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. * * * * * and any substance which the 2929. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [State Government] may, by notification, declare to be liquor for the purposes of this Act.

3030. Word subs. for the words "excisable articles" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. Explanatton. In this clause "spirit of wine" means plain spirit of or above such strength as the State Government may, by notification, specify ;

(15) "manufacture" includes

(I) every process, whether natural or artificial, by which any 3131. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] is produced or prepared (including the tapping of tari-producing trees and the drawing of tart from trees),

(II) re-distillation, and

(III) every process for the rectification, flavouring, blending or colouring of liquor, 3232. Words subs. for the words "is kept" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [or for the reduction of liquor for sale] ;

3333. Clause (iia) ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. (15a) "notification" means a notification published in the Official Gazette;

(16) "pachwai" means fermented rice, millet, or other grain, whether mixed with any liquid or not, and any liquid obtained therefrom, whether diluted or undiluted, but does not include beer ;

(17) "place" includes building, house, shop, booth, vessel, raft, 3434. Words subs. for the words "accounts and registers" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [vehicle] and tent ;

34a34a. Words subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. (17a) "prescribed" means prescribed by rules made under this Act;

(18) expression referring to "sale" include any transfer otherwise than by way of gift.

3535. Clause (iiia) ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. Explanation. The supply of liquor by a club, mess, institute, society, lodge or other similar organisation by whatever name called to its members or their guests whether on payment of price or of any fee or subscription or not shall be deemed to be a sale within the meaning of this clause.

(19) "spirit" means any liquor containing alcohol obtained by distillation, whether it is denatured or not ;

(20) "tari" means fermented or unfermented juice drawn from any cocoanut, palmyra, date or other kind of palm tree ; and

(21) "transport" means to remove from one place to another within 3636. Words subs. for the words "Excise. Police, Salt, Customs. Opium" by Ben. Act 1 of 1939. [West Bengal].

Section 3 Provision supplemental to the definition of "intoxicating drug

Rep. by Act 2 of 1930.

Section 4 Power to declare what shall be deemed to be "country liquor" and "foreign liquor", respectively

The 3737. Words subs. by the Governmnt of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] 3838. Words, figures and letter ins. by W.B. Act 12 of 1979. * * * * * may, by notification, declare what, for the purposes of this Act, or any portion thereof, shall be deemed to be "country liquor" and "foreign liquor", respectively. 3939. Words ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. * * * * * *

Section 5 Definition of retail and wholesale

(1) The 3737. Words subs. by the Governmnt of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] may, by notification, declare with respect either to the whole of 39a39a. Words subs. for the word "Bengal" by the Indian Independence (Adaptation of Bengal and Punjab Acts) Order, 1948. [West Bengal] or to any specified local area, and as regards purchasers generally or any specified class of purchasers, and either generally or for any specified occasion, what quantity of any 4040. Words subs. for the word "Magistrate" by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [intoxicant] shall, for the purposes of this Act, be the limit of a retail sale.

(2) The sale of any 4040. Words subs. for the word "Magistrate" by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [intoxicant] in any quantity in excess of the quantity delcared in respect thereof under sub-section (1) shall be deemed to be a sale by wholesale.

Section 6 Saving of certain Acts

(1) Nothing contained in this Act shall affect the provisions of

(a) the Calcutta Suburban Police Act, 1866, or

(b) the Calcutta Police Act, 1866, or

(d) the Cantonments Act, 4242. Words ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [1924], or

(e) the Indian Tariff Act, 4343. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [1934].

4444. Words within third brackets ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. (2) * * * * * *

CHAPTER 2 Establishments, Control, Appeal and Revision

Section 7 Establishments and delegation and withdrawal of powers

(1) The 4545. Words subs. for the words "any document, which throws or is likely to throw any light on the alleged offence." by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [administration of the provisions of this Act and the rules thereunder] and the collection of the excise-revenue within a district shall ordinarily be under the charge of the Collector.

(2) The 4646. Sec. 69A ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [State Cover- lent] may, by notification applicable to the whole of 4747. Words "a Collector or" om. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [West Bengal] or to any specified local area,

(a) appoint an officer who shall, subject to such control as the 4646. Sec. 69A ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [State Government] may direct, have the control of the 4848. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [administration of the provisions of this Act arid the rules thereunder] and the collection of the excise-revenue ;

4949. Word, figures and letter ins. by W.B. Act 12 of 1979. (aa) appoint one or more presons to be an Additional Excise Commissioner or Additional Excise Commissioners to exercise such powers and perform such duties conferred on the Excise Commissioner by or under this Act as the State Government may, by notification, direct and references to the Excise Commissioner in this Act shall, in respect of such powers and duties, be deemed to include references to an Additional Excise Commissioner ;

(b) appoint any person to exercise all or any of the powers and to perform all or any of the duties, conferred and imposed on a Collector by or under this Act, either concurrently with, or in subordination to, or to the exclusion of, the Collector and subject to such control as the 4646. Sec. 69A ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [State Government] may direct ;

(c) appoint officers 5050. Words ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [for the administration of the provisions of this Act and the rules thereunder], of such classes, and with such lesignations, powers and duties, as the 4646. Sec. 69A ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [State Government) may think fit ;

5151. Words ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. (cc) appoint scientific experts designated as State Chemical Examiner or State Assistant Chemical Examiner;

(d) order that all or any of the powers and duties assigned by or under this Act to any officer appointed under clause (c) of this 5252. Words subs. for the words "Police. Excise and Salt, Customs and Land- revenue Departments, and every officer employed by a body of Port Commissioners," by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [sub-section] shall be exercised and performed by any 52a52a. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [servant of the Government] or any other person ;

(e) delegate to 5353. Word, figure and brackets ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. * * * the Commissioner of a Division of the Excise Commissioner all or any of the powers conferred upon the 52a52a. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] by or under this Act, except the owner conferred by section 85 to make rules ;

(f) withdraw from any officer or person all or any of the powers or duties conferred or imposed upon him by or under this Act ; and

(g) permit the delegation by 5353. Word, figure and brackets ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. * * * the Commissioner of a Division, the Excise Commissioner or the Collector, to any person or classes of persons specified in such notification, of any powers conferred or duties imposed upon 5454. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. * * * him by or under this Act.

Section 8 Control, appeal and revision

5555. Words ins. by W.B. Act 5 of 1997.

(1) In doing anything or taking any action under this Act,

(a) the Collector shall be subject to the control of the Excise Commissioner and of the State Government and, in such matters as the State Government may direct, also of the Commissioner of the Division ; and

(b) the Excise Commissioner shall be subject to the control of the State Government.

(2) Orders passed under this Act or under any rule made hereunder shall be appealable in such cases, to such authorities and under such procedure as may be prescribed by rules made under section 85, subsection (2), clause (c).

(3) The State Government may revise any order passed by the Collector, the Excise Commissioner or the Commissioner of a Division or by any officer exercising the powers of an appellate authority under any rule made under section 85, sub-section (2), clause (c).

Section 8A Correction of errors

5656. Words ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. Clerical or arithmetical errors in any order passed under this Act or errors arising therein from any accidental slip or omission may at any time be corrected by the officer by whom or the authority by which the order was passed.

CHAPTER 3 Import, Export and Transport

Section 9 Restrictions on import

(1) No 5757. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "Chapter XV of the Code of Criminal Procedure. 1898," by W.B. Act 38 of 1983. [intoxicant] shall be imported unless

(a) the 5858. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] has given permission, either general or special, for its import;

(b) such conditions (if any) as the 5858. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] may impose have been satisfied ; and

(c) the duty (if any) 5959. Words and figures "by section 166 to 171 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973." first subs. for the words and figures "sections 166 to 171 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898." by W.B. Act 38 of 1983, w.e.f. 1.4.74, then the words and figures within third brackets subs. for the words and figures "by sections 166 to 171 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. 1973." by W.B. Act 5 of 1997. [payable under Chapter V] has been paid, or a bond has been executed for the payment thereof :

6060. Word, figures and letter ins. by W.B. Act 12 of 1979. Provided that the State Government may, subject to such conditions (if any) as it thinks fit to impose, exempt any intoxicant from the provisions of this sub-section.

6161. Words, figures, letter and brackets subs. for the words, figures and brackets "by clause first of sub-section (1) of section 54 and by section 56 of the said Code:" by W.B. Act 38 of 1983. (2) * * * * * *

6262. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. (3) * * * * * *

Section 10 Restriction on export or transport

6363. Words and fugures subs. for the words and figures "section 156 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. No intoxicant shall be exported or transported unless

(a) the duty (if any) payable under Chapter V has been paid, or a bond has been executed for the payment thereof; and

(b) such conditions (if any) as the State Government may impose, have been satisfied :

Provided that the State Government may, subject to such conditions (if any) as it thinks fit to impose, exempt any intoxicant from the provisions of this section.

Section 11 Power to prohibit import, export or transport

The 63a63a. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] may by notification,

(a) 6464. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "section 190 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W . B. Act 38 of 1983. * * * * prohibit the import or export of any 6565. Words subs. for the words "Whenever a Collector issues a warrant under this Act for the arrest of any person, he shall direct," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965 [intoxicant] into or from 6666. Words, figures, letters and brackets "except when such person is arrested for committing an offence under section 46A or clause (a) of section 48" first ins. by W.B. Act 12 of 1979, then the words, figures, letters and brackets "clause (ii) of section 46A" subs. for word, figures and letter "section 46A" by W.B. Act 38 of 1983. then the words figures and letter within first brackets subs. for the words, figures, letters and brackets "under clause (ifl of section 46A or clause (a) of section 48" by W. B. Act 5 of 1997. [West Bengal] or any part thereof, or

(b) prohibit the transport of any 6565. Words subs. for the words "Whenever a Collector issues a warrant under this Act for the arrest of any person, he shall direct," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965 [intoxicant] 6767. Words subs. for the words "take such security, and shall release such person from custody" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [either absolutely or in such circumstances as it may, by notification, specify].

Section 12 Passes for import, export or transport

(1) No 6565. Words subs. for the words "Whenever a Collector issues a warrant under this Act for the arrest of any person, he shall direct," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965 [intoxicant]exceeding such quantity as the 6363. Words and fugures subs. for the words and figures "section 156 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. [State Government] may prescribe by notification either generally or for any specified local area, shall be imported, exported or transported, except under a pass. 6868. Sub-section (4) om. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. Sub-section (4) was as under : "(4) Whenever any person is arrested under this Act, othewise than under a warrant, and is prepared to give bail, he shall be released on bail, or, at the discretion of the Officer releasing him, on his own bond.". * * * * * * *

(2) The passes required by sub-section (1) may be granted by the Collector.

(3) Such passes may be either general for definite periods and particular kinds of [intoxicants], or special for specified occasions and particular consignments only.

CHAPTER 4 Manufacture, Possession and Sale

Section 13 License required for manufacture

(a) No 6969. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937, and the Adaptation of Laws Order. 1950. [intoxicant] shall be manufactured,

7070. Words, figures and letter within third brackets ins. by W. B. Act 12 of 1979. (b) no hemp plant (Cannabis sativa L.) from which an intoxicating drug can be manufactured or produced shall be cultivated,

(c) no portion of the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa) from which an intoxicating drug can be manufactured or produced shall be collected,

(dj no liquor shall be bottled for sale,

(e) no distillery or brewery shall be worked, and

(f) no person shall use, keep or have in his possession any materials, still, utensil, implement or apparatus whatsoever for the purpose of manufacturing any 69intoxicant] other than tari, except under the authority and subject to the terms and conditions of a license granted in that behalf by the Collector 7171. Words, figures, and brackets "punishable under clause (ii) of section 46A" subs. for words, figures and letter "under section 46A" by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. [or the Excise Commissioner, as the State Government may, by notification, specify] :

Provided that any tari-producing tree may be tapped, and tari may be drawn from any tree without a license under this section, by the person in possession of the t ree

(i) for the purpose of being used in the manufacture of gur or molasses, or

7272. Words, figures and letter subs. for the words, figures, letter and brackets "under clause (ii) of section 46A of section 48" by W. B. Act 5 of 1997. (ia) for the purpose of being used solely for the preparation of food for domestic consumption, and not

(I) as an intoxicant, or

(II) for the preparation of any intoxicating article, or

(III) for the preparation of any article for sale, or

(ii) up to a limit of 7373. Sub-section (6a) ins. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [four litres,] for the domestic consumption of the said person.

Section 14 Drawing of possession of tari in notified areas

7474. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "the Code of Criminal Procedures, 1898," by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. Notwithstanding anything elsewhere contained in this Act, in any area specified by the State Government by notification in this behalf,

(a) no tari-producing tree shall be tapped,

(b) no tari shall be drawn from any tree, and

(c) no person shall have any tari in his possession, except under and in accordance with the terms and conditions of a notification issued in this behalf by the State Government or of a license granted in that hehalf by the Collector.

Section 15 Establishment of distilleries, breweries or warehouses

(1)The Excise Commissioner may,

(a) subject to any restrictions imposed by the 7575. Figures and letters ", 514A, 514B" first ins. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965, then the words and figures subs. for the words and figures "sections 498 to 502, 513, 514, 514A, 514B and 515 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. [State Government], establish, or authorize the establishment of, distilleries or breweries, in which liquor may be manufactured under a license granted under section 13 ;

(b) discontinue any such distillery or brewery;

(c) establish, or authorise the establishment of, warehouses, wherein any 7676. Words subs. for the words "the warrant of the Collector," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] 7777. Words, figures and brackets ins. by by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [in respect whereof duty payable under section 27 or permit or passfee payable under section 38 has not been paid, may be deposited or kept] ; and (d) discontinue any such warehouse.

(2) No distillery, brewery or warehouse as aforesaid shall be established except by, or under the authroity of, the Excise Commissioner.

Section 16 License required for depositing or keeping intoxicant in warehouse or other place of storage

No person shall, except under the authority and subejct to the terms and conditions of a license granted in that behalf by the Collector, deposit or keep any 7676. Words subs. for the words "the warrant of the Collector," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] in any warehouse or other place of storage established, authorized or continued under this Act.

Section 17 Payment of duty on removal from distillery, brewery, warehouse or other place of storage

No 7676. Words subs. for the words "the warrant of the Collector," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] shall be removed from any distillery, brewery, warehouse or other place of storage licensed, established, authorized or continued under this Act, unless the duty 7878. Words ins. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [or fee] (if any) 7979. Words subs. for the words "dispose of them" by W. B. Act 34 of "1965. [payable under Chapter V] 8080. Sub-section (5) ins. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [or Chapter VI] has been paid or a bond has been executed for the payment ther eof.

Section 18 Possession of intoxicants not obtained form a licensed vendor

(1) No person shall have in his possession any 8181. Words subs. for the words "all articles seized" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] which has not been obtained from a licensed vendor of the same.

(2) Sub-section (1) shall not apply to

(a) any 8181. Words subs. for the words "all articles seized" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] lawfully deposited or kept in a distillery, brewery, warehouse or other place of storage licensed, established, authorized or continued under this Act, or

(b) any 8181. Words subs. for the words "all articles seized" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] lawfully in the possession of a licensed vendor of the same, or

(c) any 8181. Words subs. for the words "all articles seized" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] in the possession of a person who has lawfully imported it, or who is authorized by the Collector to possess it, or

(d) any foreign liquor in the possession of any common carrier or warehouseman as such, or purchased at a sale authorized by clause (a) of proviso (3) to section 20, or

(e) tari intended to be used in the manufacture of gur or molasses, or

(f) tari intended to be used in the manufacture of bread by a person holding a permit to use tari for that purpose, or

8282. Words subs. for the words "which may be delivered" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. (ff) tari intended to be used solely for the preparation of food for domestic consumption, and not

(i) 8383. Words subs. for the words "accompany such articles" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [as an intoxicating article], or

(ii) for the preparation of any intoxicating article, or

(iii) for the preparation of any article for sale, or

(g) tari, up to a limit of 8484. Section 78 renumbered as sub-section (1) of that section and sub-section (2) ins. by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. [four litres,] when in the possession of the person possessing the tree from which it was drawn and intended to be used for his domestic consumption, or

(h) intoxicating drugs in the possession of any person licensed to cultivate or collect the plants from which such drugs were produced, when such possession is in accordance with the conditions of his license.

Section 19 Possession of intoxicants generally

(1) No person not being licensed to manufacture, cultivate, collect or sell any 8181. Words subs. for the words "all articles seized" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] shall have in his possession any quantity of any 8181. Words subs. for the words "all articles seized" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] in excess of such quantity as the 8585. Section 79 subs. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. Previous section 79 was as under: "79. Execution of Collector's warrant. Any warrant issued by a Collector may be executed by any officer selected by the Collector for the purpose: Provided that no warrant issued by the Collector for execution in that part of the Calcutta district in which the administration of the Police is vested in the Commissioner of Police shall be executed by any Police Officer who is subordinate to the said Commissioner, unless it be endorsed by a Police Officer duly empowered in that behalf under section 7, clause (d).". [State Governmentl has, under section 5, declared to be the limit of a retail sale, except under a permit granted by the Collector in that behalf.

(2) 8686. Words subs. for the words "shall not exceed twenty-four hours," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [Save as the State Government may by rule made under section 85 otherwise provide, sub-seciton (1) shall not apply to ]

(a) any foreign liquor (other than denatured spirit) which is in the possession of any common carrier of warehouseman as such, or

(b) any foreign liquor which has been purchased by any person for his bona fide private consumption and not for sale, or

(c) tari intended to be used in the manufacture of gur or molasses, 8787. Words subs. for the words, figures and brackets "to the place where a Collector or an Excise Officer empowered under section 73. sub-section (2), to investigate the case may be, and thence to the Court of a Magistrate having jurisdiction to inquire into or try the case." by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [or]

8888. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "section 167 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W. B. Act 38 of 1983, w.e.f. 1.4.74. (d) tari intended to be used solely for the preparation of food for domestic consumption, and not

(i) 8989. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "the Code of Criminal Procedure. 1898" by W. B. Act 38 of 1983, w.e.f. 1.4.74. [as an intoxicating article], or

(ii) for the preparation of any intoxicating article, or

(iii) for the preparation of any article for sale.

(3) 9090. Words subs. for the words "to whom a Collector's warrant is directed or endorsed," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [A person licensed to manufacture, cultivate, collect or sell any intoxicant] shall not have in his possession at any place other than that authorised by his license any quantity of any 9191. Section 82 subs. by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. Previous section 82 was as under: "82. Magistrates having jurisdiction to try offences. No Magistrate other than (a) a Presidency Magistrate, or (b) a Misgistrate whose powers are not less than those of a Magistrate of the second class, or (c) a Magistrate of the third class, specially empowered by the District Magistrate in this behalf, shall try any offence punishable under Act.". [intoxicant] in excess of such quantity as the 9292. Word, figures and letter ins. by W. B. Act 12 of 1979. [State Government] has, under section 5, declared to be the limit of a retail sale, except under a permit granted by the Collector in that behalf.

9393. Words, subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. (4) Notwithstanding anything contained in the foregoing subsections, if the State Government thinks fit so to do on the ground of health, morality or public order, it may, by notification, prohibit, either absolutely or subject to such conditions as it may prescribe, the possession in the whole of West Bengal or in any specified local area of any intoxicant by the all persons generally or by any specified class or classes of persons.

Section 20 License required for sale

No 9191. Section 82 subs. by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. Previous section 82 was as under: "82. Magistrates having jurisdiction to try offences. No Magistrate other than (a) a Presidency Magistrate, or (b) a Misgistrate whose powers are not less than those of a Magistrate of the second class, or (c) a Magistrate of the third class, specially empowered by the District Magistrate in this behalf, shall try any offence punishable under Act.". [intoxicant], and no portion of the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa) from which an intoxicating drug can be manufactured or produced, shall be sold except under the authority and 9494. Word, figures and letter ins. by W. B. Act 12 of 1979. [in accordance with the terms and conditions of a license granted in that behalf by the Collector subject to the provisions of section 37A] : Provided as follows :

(1) a license for sale in more than one district shall be granted only by the Excise Commissioner 9595. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "section 191 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W.B. Act 38 of 1983, w.e.f. 1.4.74.96. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [or by a Collector specially authorized in that behalf by the Excise Commissioner];

9696. Words "one year and shall also be liable to fine which may extend to two thousand rupees" first subs, for the words "six months, or to fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or to both" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965, then the words' within third brackets subs. for the words "one year and shall also be liable to fine which may extend to two thousand rupees" by W.B. Act 38 of 1983. (la) a license for sale granted under the Excise law in force in any other 9797. Words "the Board" rep. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [State] may, on such conditions as may be determined by the Excise Commissioner, be deemed to be a license granted under this Act ;

(2) a cultivator or owner of any hemp plant (Cannabis sativa) may sell, without a license, those portions of the plant from which an intoxicating drug can be manufactured or produced, to any person licensed under this Act to deal in the same, or to any officer whom the Excise Commissioner may authorize to purchase or receive the same ;

(3) no license shall be required for any of the following sales, namely :

(a) the sale of foreign liquor lawfully procured by any person for his private use when such sale is made by such person himself or on his behalf upon his quitting a station, or on behalf of his representatives in interest after his decease :

(b) the sale of tari, 9898. Word, figure and brackets ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [lawfully possessed] by a person in possession of the tree from which it was drawn, to a person licensed under this Act to manufacture or sell tari;

(c) the sale of tari 9999. Words subs. for the words "or transport" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [lawfully possessed and] intended to be used in the manufacture of gur or molasses, or

(d) the sale of tari 9999. Words subs. for the words "or transport" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [lawfully possessed and] intended to be used in the manufacture of bread to a person hold- ing a permit to use tari for the purpose of making bread ; 11. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [or

(e) the sale of tari lawfully possessed and intended to be used solely for the preparation of food for domestic consumption and not

(i) 2(as an intoxicating article), or

(ii) for the preparation of any intoxicating article, or

(iii) for the preparation of any article for sale].

Section 21 Manufacture and sale of liquor in or near cantonments

Within the limits of any military cantonment, and within such distance from those limits as the 33. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [Central Government] may in any case prescribe, no license for the manufacture or sale of liquor shall be granted, except with the previous consent of the Commanding Officer.

Section 22 Grant of exclusive privilege of manufacture and sale of country liquor or intoxicating drugs

(1) The 44. Clause (0 ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [State Government] may grant to any person, on such conditions and for such period as it may think fit, the exclusive privilege

(a) of manufacturing, or supplying by wholesale, or

(b) of manufacturing, and supplying by wholesale, or

(d) of manufacturing or supplying by wholesale and selling retail, any country liquor or intoxicating drug within any specified local area :

Provided that public notice shall be given of the intention to grant any such exclusive privilege, and that any objections made by any person residing within the area affected shall be considered before an exclusive privilege is granted.

(2) No grantee of any privilege under sub-section (1) shall exercise the same unless or until he has received a license in that behalf from the Collector 55. Words, figures, letters and brackets ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [or the Excise Commissioner].

Section 23 Transfer of exclusive privilege

(1) A grantee of an exclusive privilege under section 22 shall not let or assign the same or any portion thereof unless he is expressly authorised, by a condition made under that section, to do so.

(2) Such letting or assignment shall be made only to a person approved by the Collector or (if the letting or assignment extends to more than one district) the Excise Commissioner.

(3) The lessee or assignee shall not exercise any rights as such unless and until the Collector has, upon his application, granted him a license to do so.

Section 24 Maintenance and use of measures, weights and instruments by licensed manufacturers and vendors

Every person who manufactures or sells any 66. Word, figure and brackets subs. for word, letter and brackets "clause (a)" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] under a license granted under this Act

(a) shall supply himself with 77. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898." by W.B. Act 5 of 1997, w.e.f. 1.4.74. [such standard measures, standard weights, measuring instruments and weighing instruments, duly stamped and verified in accordance with the provisions of the West Bengal Standards of Weights and Measures (Enforcement) Act, 1958, and such other instruments as the Excise Commissioner may prescribe] and shall keep the same in good condition ; and

(b) when such measures, weights and instruments have been so prescribed, shall, on the requisition of any 88. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [officer referred to in clause (a), caluse (b) or clause (c) of section 66], measure, weigh or test any 66. Word, figure and brackets subs. for word, letter and brackets "clause (a)" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] in his possession, at such time and in such manner as such officer may require.

Section 25 Employment of children or women by licensed vendors

(1) No person who is licensed to sell foreign liquor or country spirit for consumption on his premises shall,during the hours in which such premises are kept open for business,employ or premit to be employed, either with or without remuneration, any 99. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [person under the age of twenty-one years], in any part of such premises in which such liquor or spirit is consumed by the public.

(2) No person who is licensed to sell foreign liquor 1010. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [or country spirit] for consumption on his premises shall, 1111. Words subs. for the words, figures and brackets "under section 14, subsection (1)," by W.B.. Act 34 of 1965. * * * * *, during the hours in which such premises are kept open for business, employ or permit to be employed, either with or without remuneration, any woman, in any part of such premises in which such liquor 1212. Word "British" om. by the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. removal of any 13[intoxicant] from any such warehouse or from any distillery or brewery ; [or spirit] is consumed by the public.

1313. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. (3)* * * * * * *

1313. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. (4)* * * * * * *

Section 26 Power to close shops temporarily

(1) The District Magistrate or a Sub-Divisional Magristrate, or (in Calcutta) 1414. Sub-clause (uii) subs. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. Previous sub-clause (mi) was as under : "(vii) prescribing the accounts to be maintained and the returns to be submitted by licensees, and". [the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate] or the Commissioner of Police, may, by notice in writing to the licensee require that any shop in which any 14a14a. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] is sold shall be closed at such times or for such period as such Magistrate or Commissioner of Police may think necessary for the preservation of the public peace.

(2) If any riot or unlawful assembly is apprehended or occurs in the vicinity of any shop in which any 1515. Word subs. for the words "excisable articles" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] is sold, any Magistrate, or any Police Officer above the rank of constable, who is present, may require such shop to be kept closed for such period as he may think necessary.

(3) When any Magistrate or Police Officer makes a direction under sub-section (1) or sub-section (2), he shall forthwith inform the Collector of his action and his reason therefor.

CHAPTER 5 Duty

Section 27 Power to impose duty on import, export, transport and manufacture

(1)1616. Words subs. for the words "other disposal" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [An excise duty or a countervailing duty, as the case may be,] at such rate or rates as the 1717. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [State Government] may direct, may be imposed, either generally, or for any specified local area, on

(a) any excisable article imported, or

(b) any excisable article exported, or

(d) any excisable article (other than tari) manufactured under any license granted in respect of clause (a) of section 13, or

(e) any hemp plant (Cannabis sativa) cultivated, or any protion of such plant collected, under any license granted in respect of clause (b) or caluse (c) of section 13, or

(f) any excisable article manufactured in any distillery or brewery licensed, established, authorised or continued under this Act.

Explanation. Duty may be imposed on any article under this subsection at different rates 1818. Clause (14) subs. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. Previous clause (14) was as under : "(14) for regulating the disposal of things confiscated under this Act,". [according to the pruposes for which such article is intended to be used,] accroding to the place to which such article is to be removed for consumption, or according to the varying strengths and quality of such article.

(2) 1919. 'Explanation' renumbered as 'Explanation I' and 'Explanation II ins. by W.B. Act 50 of 1974. [An excise duty 2020. Words subs. for the words "Calcutta Gazette" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. * * * * at such rate or rates as the 1717. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [State Government] may direct, may be imposed, either generally or for any specified local area, on any tart drawn under any license granted under section 14 2121. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. ** * *.

2222. Words subs. for the words "or by the process prescribed" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. (3)* * * * * * *

Section 28 Ways of levying such duty. Subject to any rules made under section 86, clause (12) any duty imposed under section 27 may be levied in any of the following ways

(a) on an excisable article imported,

(i) by payment (upon or before importation) in 2323. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [West Bengal) or in the 2424. Words subs. for the word "Bengal" by the Indian Independence (Adaptation of Bengal and Punjab Acts) Order, 1948. [State] or territory from which the article is brought, or

(ii) by payment upon issue for sale from a warehouse established, authorized or continued under this Act ;

(b) on an excisable article exported, by payment in 2323. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [West Bengal] or in the 2424. Words subs. for the word "Bengal" by the Indian Independence (Adaptation of Bengal and Punjab Acts) Order, 1948. [State] or territory to which the article is sent;

(i) by payment in the district from which the article is sent,or

(ii) by payment upon issue for sale from a warehouse established, authorized, or continued under this Act ;

(d) on intoxicating drugs manufactured, cultivated or collected,

(i) by a rate charged upon the quantity manufactured under a license granted in respect of the provisions for section 13, clause (a), or issued for sale from a warehouse established, authorized or continued under this Act, or

(ii) by 2525. Sec. 92 renumbered as sub-sec.(1) of that sec. and sub-sec. (2) ins. by W.B. Act 40 of 1979. [a rate assessed on the area covered by, or on the quantity or outturn of, the crop cultivated or collected, under.) a license granted in respect of the provisions of section 13, clause (b) or caluse (c) ;

(e) on spirit or beer manufactured in any distillery or brewery licensed, established, authroized or continued under this Act,

(i) by a rate charged upon the quantity produced in or issued from the distillery or brewery, as the case may be, or issued for sale from a warehouse established, authorized or continued under this Act, or

(ii) in accordance with such scale of equivalents calculated on the quantity of materials used, or by the degree of attenuation of the wash or wort, as the case may be, as the 2626. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. (State Government) may prescribe ; and

(f) on tari drawn, under a license granted under section 14, sub-section (1), by a tax on each tree from which the drawing of tari is permitted :

Provided that, where payment is made upon the issue of an excisable article for sale from a warehouse, it shall be at the rate of duty in force on the date of issue of such article from such warehouse :

Provided also that no tax shall be levied in respect of any tree from which tari is drawn only for the manufacture of gur or molasses and under such special conditions as the 2727. Sec. 92A ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [Excise Commissioner] may prescribe.

Section 29 Payment for grant of exclusive privilege

Instead of, or in addition to, any duty leviable under this Act, the 27a27a. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] may accept payment of a sum in consideration of the grant of any exclusive privilege under secion 22.

Section 29A Saving for duties being levied at commencement of the Constitution

2828. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "Section 261 of the Bengal Municipal Act 1884" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965.

(1) Until provision to the contrary is made by 2929. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [Parliament] the 3030. Word subs. for the words "excisable articles" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [State] Government may continue to levy any duty to which this section applies which it was lawfully levying immediately before the commencement of 3131. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [the Constitution], under this Chapter as then in force.

(2) The duties to which this section applies are

(a) any duty on intoxicants which are not excisable articles within the meaning of this Act ;

(b) any duty on an excisable article produced outside India and imported into the 3030. Word subs. for the words "excisable articles" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [State] whether across a customs frontier as defined by the Central Government or not ;

3232. Words subs. for the words "is kept" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. (c) any duty on medicinal or toilet preparations containing alcohol.

(3) Nothing in this section shall authorise the levy by the State Government of any duty which, as between goods manufactured or produced in the 3030. Word subs. for the words "excisable articles" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [State] and similar goods not so manufactured or produced, discriminates in favour of the former, or which, in the case of goods manufactured or produced outside the 3030. Word subs. for the words "excisable articles" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [State], discriminates between goods manufactured or produced in one locality and similar goods manufactured or produced in another locality.

CHAPTER 6 Licenses, Permits and Passes

Section 30 Selection of new sites for grant of licenses

3333. Clause (iia) ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914.

(1) The State Government may, subject to such conditions and restrictions as may be prescribed, select, from time to time, new sites in any local area for grant of a license for the retail sale of spirit at such new site or in the vicinity thereof having regard to public demand.

(2) Upon selection of the new sites under sub-section (1), the Collector may, subject to the provisions of section 37A, grant a license to a person for the retail sale of spirit at the new site or in the vicinity thereof for a period of settlement.

Section 31 Grant of licenses at existing sites

3333. Clause (iia) ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. Unless the State Government or the Excise Commissioner otherwise directs, the Collector may, on the expiry of the period of validity of licenses for the retail sale of spirit at the existing sites, grant licenses for the retail sale of spirit at the existing sites or, if necessary, in the vicinity thereof for the next period of settlement in such manner and subject to such conditions as may be prescribed.

Section 32 Time for preparation and publication of such list

Omitted by W.B. Act 4 of 1993.

Section 33 Submission of objections and opinions to Collector

Omitted by W.B. Act 4 of 1993.

Section 34 Grant of licenses by Collector, and submission of list,objections and opinions to Excise Commissioner

Omitted by W.B.Act 4 of 1993.

Section 35 Finality of decision of Excise Commissioner or State Government

Omitted by W.B. Act 4 of 1993.

Section 35A Definition

Omitted by W.B. Act 4 of 1993.

Section 36 Application of section 3O and 31 to licenses for retail sale of intoxicants other than spirit

3434. Words subs. for the words "accounts and registers" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. The provisions of sections 30 and 31 as to licenses for the retail sale of spirit shall also be applicable to the licenses for the retail sale of such other intoxicants as the State Government may, by order, specify, in West Bengal generally or in such local area as may be specified in such order. 3535. Clause (iiia) ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. *******

Section 37 Exemption of certain licenses from section 30 or section 36

3636. Words subs. for the words "Excise. Police, Salt, Customs. Opium" by Ben. Act 1 of 1939. Notwithstanding anything contained in section 30 or section 36, the Collector may, in such manner and subject to such conditions and restrictions as may be prescribed, grant license to

(a) any person, for the retail sale of any intoxicant during any period not exceeding six months; or

(b) any person, for the sale of any denatured spirit; or

(c) any person, for the retail sale of any intoxicant in substitution for and for the remainder of a license which has been cancelled, withdrawn or surrendered before the expiration of the period for which it was granted or which has lapsed on the death of the person to whom it was granted; or

(d) any medical practitioner, chemist, druggist, apothecary or keeper of a dispensary, for the retail sale of any intoxicant for medical purposes; or

(e) any person in charge of a military canteen or a canteen established by or for the Border Security Force for sale of foreign liquor to the military personnel or the personnel of the Border Security Force.

Section 37A Selection of persons to whom licenses may be granted

3737. Words subs. by the Governmnt of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950.

3838. Words, figures and letter ins. by W.B. Act 12 of 1979. (1) Before granting a license for the sale of an intoxicant other than a licnese referred to in sub-section (2) of section 22, the Collector shall select, in such manner and subject to such restrictions as the State Government may prescribe, a person to whom such license may be granted. 3939. Words ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. * * * » * *

Section 38 Fees for terms, conditions and form of, and duration of,licenses, permits and passes

(1) Every license, permit or pass granted under this Act

(a) shall be granted

(i) on payment of such fees (if any), 4040. Words subs. for the word "Magistrate" by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [as the State Government may fix], and

(ii) subject to such restrictions and on such conditions, 4040. Words subs. for the word "Magistrate" by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [as the State Government may impose], and

(b) shall be in such form and contain such particulars as the 4141. Words ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [State Government] may direct.

(2) Every license, permit or pass under this Act shall be granted for such period (if any) as may be prescribed by rule made by the 4141. Words ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [State Government] under secion 85, 4242. Words ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [sub-secion (2),] clause (e).

Section 39 Continuance of licenses granted tinder former law

Rep. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914.

Section 40 Counterpart agreement by license, and security or deposit

Any authority granting a license under this Act may require the grantee to execute a counterpart agreement in conformity with the tenor of his license, and to give such security for the performance of such agreement, or to make such deposit in lieu of security, as such authority may think fit.

Section 41 Technical defects, irregularities and omissions

(1) No license granted under this Act shall be deemed to be invalid by reason merely of any technical defect, irregularity or omission in the license or in any proceedings taken prior to the grant thereof.

(2) The decision of 43*........the 43a43a. Words subs, by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] as to what is a technical defect, irregularity or omission, shall be final.

Section 42 Power to cancel or suspend license, permit or pass

(1) Subject to such restrictions as the 43a43a. Words subs, by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] may prescribe 4444. Words within third brackets ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [by rule made under section 85, sub-section (2), clause (i)], the authority who granted any license, permit or pass under this Act may cancel or suspend it

(a) if it is transferred or sublet by the holder thereof without the permission of the said authority ; or

(b) if any duty 4545. Words subs. for the words "any document, which throws or is likely to throw any light on the alleged offence." by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [, tax] or fee payable by the holder thereof be not duly paid ; or

(c) in the event of any breach by the holder thereof, or by any of his servants, or by any one acting on his behalf with his express or implied permission, of any of the terms or conditions thereof ; or

(d) if the holder thereof is convicted of any offence punishable under this Act or any other law for the time being in force relating to revenue, or of any congnizable and non-bailable offence, or of any offence punishable 4646. Sec. 69A ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [under the Dangerous Drugs Act, 1930, {or under the Trade and Merchandise Marks Act, 1958 or under any of sections 479 to 489 of the Indian Penal Code, or under the Medicinal and Toilet Preparations (Excise Duties) Act, 1955}]; or

4747. Words "a Collector or" om. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. (e) if the holder thereof is subjected to any penalty under Chapter XIV of the Customs Act, 1962; or

(f) where a license, permit or pass has been granted on the application of the holder of an exclusive privilege granted under section 22, on the requisition in writing of such holder, or

(g) if the conditions of the license, permit or pass provide such cancellation or suspension at will.

(2) When a license, permit or pass held by any person is cancelled under clause (a), clause (b), clause (c), clause (d) or clause (e) of subsection (1) the authority aforesaid may cancel any other license, permit or pass granted to such person 4848. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [by, or by the authority of, the 49(State) Government] under this Act, or under any other law for the time being in force relating to excise, or under the Opium Act, 1878.

(3) The holder of a license, permit or pass shall not be entitled to any conpensation for its cancellation or suspension under this section, or to the refund of any fee paid or deposit made in respect thereof.

Section 43 Power to withdraw license, etc

5050. Words ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914.

(1) Whenever the authority which granted any license, permit or pass under this Act considers that the license, permit or pass should be withdrawn for any cause other than those speciied in section 42, it may, subject to such restrictions (if any) as the State Government may prescribe by rule under section 85, withdraw the license, permit or pass either

(a) on the expiration of fifteen days' notice in wirting of its intention to do so, or

(b) forthwith, without notice, after recording its reasons in writing for doing so.

(2) When a license, permit or pass is withdrawn under sub-section (1), there shall be paid to the holder of the license, permit or pass, as the case may be, the amount (if any) deposited as security or in advance as fees in respect of the unexpired period of the license, permit or pass together with compensation amounting to fifteen days' average fees payable in respect of the license, permit or pass calculated in the manner specified in sub-section (3):

Provided that where a license, permit or pass is withdrawn without notice the amount of such compensation shall be twice the amount of such average fees.

(3) The amount of fifteen days' average fees referred to in sub-section (2) shall be calculated in the following manner, that is to say,

(i) where the fees in respect of the license, permit or pass have been fixed by auction, the amount of fifteen days' average fees shall bear to the total amount of fees so fixed the same proportion as the period of fifteen days bears to the total period of the license, permit or pass ; and

(ii) in other cases the amount of fifteen days' average fees shall be the average for fifteen days of the fees actually paid in respect of the license, permit or pass during a period of three months or duirng the actual period whichever is less, immediately preceding the withdrawal of the license, permit or pass.

Section 44 Surrender of license

5151. Words ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. (1) Any holder of a license granted under this Act to sell an 5252. Words subs. for the words "Police. Excise and Salt, Customs and Land- revenue Departments, and every officer employed by a body of Port Commissioners," by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] may, unless his license is liable to cancellation or suspension under section 42, surrender the same on 53(i) the expiration of a period of three months, or such shorter period as the Collector may allow, after giving to the Collector a notice in writing of his intention so to do, and

(ii) payment of the fees payable for the license for the whole period for which it would have been current but for such surrender:

Provided that, if the Excise Commissioner is satisfied that there is sufficient reason for surrendering a license, he may remit to the holder thereof the sum so payable on surrender, and any fees paid in advance, or any portion of such sum or fees.

(2) Sub-section (1) shall not apply in the case of a license for the sale of any country liquor or intoxicaing drug in the exercise of an exclusive privilege granted under section 22.

Explanation. The words "holder of a license," as used in this section, include a person whose tender or bid for a license has been accepted, although he may not actually have received the license.

Section 44A Bar to right of renewal and to compensation

5454. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. No person to whom a license 5555. Words ins. by W.B. Act 5 of 1997. [or permit] has been granted under this Act shall have any claim to the 5656. Words ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [renewal thereof], or, save as provided in section 43, any claim to compensation on the determination thereof.

CHAPTER 7 Departmental Management or Transfer

Section 45 Power of Collector to take grants under management, or to transfer them

CHAPTER 8 Offences and Penalties

Section 46 Penalty for unlawful import, export, transport, manufacture etc. of intoxicant other than spirit or intoxicating drug and collecting or selling hemp, bottling liquor and removing intoxicant etc

5858. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. Whoever in contravention of this Act, or any rule, notification or order made, issued or given, or licence, permit or pass granted under this Act,

5959. Words and figures "by section 166 to 171 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973." first subs. for the words and figures "sections 166 to 171 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898." by W.B. Act 38 of 1983, w.e.f. 1.4.74, then the words and figures within third brackets subs. for the words and figures "by sections 166 to 171 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. 1973." by W.B. Act 5 of 1997. (a) manufactures intoxicant (including bakhar but excluding spirit or other intoxicating drugs), or

6060. Word, figures and letter ins. by W.B. Act 12 of 1979. (b) imports, exports, transports, possesses or sells any intoxicant (including bakhar but excluding spirit or other intoxicating drugs), or

(d) bottles any liquor 6262. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [, other than spirit] for the purpose of sale, or

(e) removes any intoxicant from any distillery, brewery, warehouse or other place of storage, licensed, established, authorised or continued under this Act, 6363. Words and fugures subs. for the words and figures "section 156 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. [shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to one year and with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees.]

Section 46A Penalty for unlawful manufacture of spirit or transport etc. of intoxicating drug, cultivation of hemp, use and possession of materials for manufacture of spirit and intoxicating drug

6464. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "section 190 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W . B. Act 38 of 1983. Wheover in contravention of this Act or of any rule, notification or order made, issued or given, or a license, permit or pass granted under this Act,

6565. Words subs. for the words "Whenever a Collector issues a warrant under this Act for the arrest of any person, he shall direct," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965 (a) manufactures any spirit or intoxicating drug other than bakhar or cultivates hemp plant (Cannabis sativa L.) 6666. Words, figures, letters and brackets "except when such person is arrested for committing an offence under section 46A or clause (a) of section 48" first ins. by W.B. Act 12 of 1979, then the words, figures, letters and brackets "clause (ii) of section 46A" subs. for word, figures and letter "section 46A" by W.B. Act 38 of 1983. then the words figures and letter within first brackets subs. for the words, figures, letters and brackets "under clause (ifl of section 46A or clause (a) of section 48" by W. B. Act 5 of 1997. [from which an intoxicating drug can be manufactured or produced], or

(b) uses, keeps or has in his possession any material 6666. Words, figures, letters and brackets "except when such person is arrested for committing an offence under section 46A or clause (a) of section 48" first ins. by W.B. Act 12 of 1979, then the words, figures, letters and brackets "clause (ii) of section 46A" subs. for word, figures and letter "section 46A" by W.B. Act 38 of 1983. then the words figures and letter within first brackets subs. for the words, figures, letters and brackets "under clause (ifl of section 46A or clause (a) of section 48" by W. B. Act 5 of 1997. [including fermented wash], still, utensils, implements or apparatus whatsoever for the purpose mentioned in clause (a), or

6767. Words subs. for the words "take such security, and shall release such person from custody" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. (c) imports, exports, transports, possesses or sells spirit or intoxicating drug other than bakhar, or

(cc) bottles spirit for the purpose of sale, or

(d) works any distillery or brewery, or

(e) establishes any distillery, brewery or warehouse ; 6969. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937, and the Adaptation of Laws Order. 1950. [or]

7070. Words, figures and letter within third brackets ins. by W. B. Act 12 of 1979. (f) collects or sells any portion of hemp plant (Cannabis sativa L.) from which an intoxicating drug may be manufactured or produced, 7171. Words, figures, and brackets "punishable under clause (ii) of section 46A" subs. for words, figures and letter "under section 46A" by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. [shall be punishable,

(i) in the case of an offence under caluse (c) or clause (f), when the value of the spirit, intoxicating drug or hemp plant 7272. Words, figures and letter subs. for the words, figures, letter and brackets "under clause (ii) of section 46A of section 48" by W. B. Act 5 of 1997. {(Cannabis sativa L.) from which an intoxicating drug can be manufactured or produced is less than} two thousand rupees, with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years and with fine :

Provided that in the absence of special and adequate reasons to the contrary to be recorded in the judgement of the court, such imprisonment shall not be,

(1) for the first offence, for less than one month, and

(2) for the second and for every subsequent offence, for less than three months ;

(ii) in any other case, with imprisonment for a term which may extend to five years (but shall not be for less than six months

Section 46B Offences by companies

7373. Sub-section (6a) ins. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965.

(1) Where any offence punishable under this Act is committed by a Company, the Company and every Director, Manager, Secretary or agent of the Company, unless such Director, Manager, Secretary or agent proves that the offence was committed without his knowledge or consent, shall be deemed to be guilty of the offence and shall be liable to be proceeded against and punished accordingly.

(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-section (1), where an offence punishable under this Act has been committed by a Company and it is proved that the offence has been committed with the consent or connivance of or is attributable to any neglect on the part of any other officer or person concerned in the management of the affairs of the Company, such other officer or person shall also be deemed to be guilty of that offence and shall be liable to be proceeded against and punished accordingly. Explanation. For the purposes of this section

(a) "Company" means a body corporate and includes a firm or other association of individuals; and

(b) "Director, in relation to a firm", means a partner of the firm.".

Section 47 Presumption as to offence where possession is not satisfactorily accounted for

In prosecutions under 7474. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "the Code of Criminal Procedures, 1898," by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. [section 46 or section 46A] it may be presumed, unless and until the contrary is proved, that the accused person has committed an offence punishable 7575. Figures and letters ", 514A, 514B" first ins. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965, then the words and figures subs. for the words and figures "sections 498 to 502, 513, 514, 514A, 514B and 515 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. [under section 46 or section 46A, as the case may be,] in respect of

(a) any 7676. Words subs. for the words "the warrant of the Collector," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant], or

(b) any still, utensil, implement or apparatus whatsoever for the manufacture of any 7676. Words subs. for the words "the warrant of the Collector," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] other than tart, or

(c) any materials which have undergone any process towards the manufacture of an 7676. Words subs. for the words "the warrant of the Collector," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] or from which an 7676. Words subs. for the words "the warrant of the Collector," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] has been manufactured,for the possession of which he fails to account satisfactorily.

Section 48 Penalty for altering or attempting to alter denatured spirit

7777. Words, figures and brackets ins. by by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. Whoever

(a) alters or attempts to alter, by any means whatsoever, any denatured spirit, or

(b) has in his possession any spirit which has been and which he knows or has reason to believe to have been, derived from denatured spirit, so that such spirit may be used for human consumption internally, whether as a beverage or medicine or in any other way whatsoever, shall be liable in case of clause (a) to imprisonment for a term which may extend to 7878. Words ins. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [five years and to fine], and in case of clause (b) to imprisonment for a term which may extend to 7979. Words subs. for the words "dispose of them" by W. B. Act 34 of "1965. [two years and to fine:]

8080. Sub-section (5) ins. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. Provided that in the absence of special and adequate reasons to the contrary to be recorded in the judgement of the court, such imprisonment shall be,

(1) in the case of clause (a), for the first offence, for not less than three months, and for the second and for every subsequent offence, for not less than six months, and

(2) in the case of clause (b), for the first offence, for not less than one month, and for the second and for every subsequent offence, for not less than three months.

Section 48A Presumption as to offence under section 48 in certain cases

8181. Words subs. for the words "all articles seized" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. In prosecutions under section 48, when the accused person is proved to have been in possession of any spirit which is, or contains, or has been derived from denatured spirit, and in respect of which any such alteration or attempt as is referred to in section 48 has been made, it may, from the mere fact of such possession, be presumed, unless and until the contrary is proved, that such person

(i) has himself made such alteration or attempt, or

(ii) knows or has reason to believe that such alteration or attempt has been made.

Section 48B Presumption as to any spirit which contains any denaturant

8282. Words subs. for the words "which may be delivered" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. In any prosecution under this Act it may be presumed unless and until the contrary is proved, that any spirit which contains 8383. Words subs. for the words "accompany such articles" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [any denaturant different in kind, quality or quantity from such as may be prescribed by rule made under clause (3) of section 86 for denaturing spirit, has been derived from denatured spirit by alteration.]

Section 49 Penalty for adulteration by licensed manufacturer or vendor or his servant

If any licensed manufacturer or licensed vendor, or any person in his employ and acting on his behalf, mixes, or permits to be mixed, with any 8484. Section 78 renumbered as sub-section (1) of that section and sub-section (2) ins. by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. [intoxicant] manufactured, sold or kept or exposed for sale by him, any noxious drug or any article prohibited by rule made under section 86, clause (9), sub-clause (i) , and such mixing does not amount to an offence punishable under section 272 of the Indian Penal Code, 8585. Section 79 subs. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. Previous section 79 was as under: "79. Execution of Collector's warrant. Any warrant issued by a Collector may be executed by any officer selected by the Collector for the purpose: Provided that no warrant issued by the Collector for execution in that part of the Calcutta district in which the administration of the Police is vested in the Commissioner of Police shall be executed by any Police Officer who is subordinate to the said Commissioner, unless it be endorsed by a Police Officer duly empowered in that behalf under section 7, clause (d).". [or has in his possession any 86(intoxicant) in respect of which such admixture has been made,] he shall be liable to imprisonment for a term which may extend to 8787. Words subs. for the words, figures and brackets "to the place where a Collector or an Excise Officer empowered under section 73. sub-section (2), to investigate the case may be, and thence to the Court of a Magistrate having jurisdiction to inquire into or try the case." by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [eighteen months], or to fine which may extend to 8888. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "section 167 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W. B. Act 38 of 1983, w.e.f. 1.4.74. [five thousand rupees], or to both.

Section 50 Penalty for fraud by licensed manufacturer or vendor or his servant

If any licensed manufacturer or licensed vendor, or any person in his employ and acting on his behalf,

(a) sells or keeps or exposes for sale, as foreign liquor, any liquor which he knows or has reason to believe to be country liquor, and such sale does not amount to an offence punishable under section 417 or section 418 of the Indian Penal Code, or

(b) marks any bottle, case, package or other receptacle containing country liquor, or the cork of any such bottle, or deals with any bottle, case, package, or other receptacle containing country liquor, with the intention of causing it to be believed that such bottle, case, package or other receptacle contains foreign liquor, and such marking or dealing does not amount to an offence punishable under section 482 of the said Indian Penal Code, he shall be liable to imprisonment for a term which may extend to 8989. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "the Code of Criminal Procedure. 1898" by W. B. Act 38 of 1983, w.e.f. 1.4.74. [one year], or to fine which may extend to 9090. Words subs. for the words "to whom a Collector's warrant is directed or endorsed," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [two thousand] rupees, or to both.

Section 51 Penalty for certain unlawful acts of licensed vendors or their servants

(1) If any licensed vendor, or any person in his employ and acting on his behalf,

9191. Section 82 subs. by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. Previous section 82 was as under: "82. Magistrates having jurisdiction to try offences. No Magistrate other than (a) a Presidency Magistrate, or (b) a Misgistrate whose powers are not less than those of a Magistrate of the second class, or (c) a Magistrate of the third class, specially empowered by the District Magistrate in this behalf, shall try any offence punishable under Act.". (a) employs, or permits to be employed, in any part of his licensed premises referred to in section 25, any woman or other person in contravention of that section ; or

(b) sells any 9292. Word, figures and letter ins. by W. B. Act 12 of 1979. [intoxicant] to a person who is drunk or intoxicated ; or

(c) sells or delivers any spirit or intoxicating drug to any 9393. Words, subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [person] apparently under the age of 9494. Word, figures and letter ins. by W. B. Act 12 of 1979. [twenty-one years] whether for consumption by such 9393. Words, subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [person] or by any other person, and whether for consumption on or off the premises of such vendor ; or

(d) permits drunkenness, intoxication, disorderly conduct or gaming on the premises of such vendor ; or

(e) permits any person whom he knows, or has reason to believe, to have been convicted of any non-bailable offence, or who are reputed prostitutes, to meet, or any such person to remain, on the premises of such vendor, whether for the purposes of crime or prostitution or not, he shall be liable to 9595. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "section 191 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W.B. Act 38 of 1983, w.e.f. 1.4.74.96. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [imprisonment for a term which may extend to six months or to fine which may extend to two thousand rupees or to both.]

(2) When any licensed vendor, or any person in his employ and acting on his behalf, is charged with premitting drunkenness or intoxication on the premises of such vendor, and it is proved that any person was drunk or intoxicated on such premises, it shall lie on the person charged to prove that the vendor and the persons employed by him took all reasonable steps for preventing drunkenness or intoxication on such premises.

Section 52 Penalty for possession of intoxicant in respect of which an offence has been committed

If any person, without lawful authority, has in his possession any quantity of any 9292. Word, figures and letter ins. by W. B. Act 12 of 1979. [intoxicant], knowing the same to have been unlawfully imported, transported or manufactured, or knowing that the prescribed duty has not been paid thereon, he shall be liable to imprisonment for a term which may extend to 9696. Words "one year and shall also be liable to fine which may extend to two thousand rupees" first subs, for the words "six months, or to fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or to both" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965, then the words' within third brackets subs. for the words "one year and shall also be liable to fine which may extend to two thousand rupees" by W.B. Act 38 of 1983. [two years and to fine.]

Section 53 Penalty for consumption in chemist's shop, etc

(1) If any chemist, druggist, apothecary or keeper of a dispensary allows any 96a96a. Word subs. for the word "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] which has not been bona fide medicated for medicinal purposes to be consumed on his business premises by any person not employed in his business, he shall be liable to imprisonment for a term which may extend to 9797. Words "the Board" rep. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [one year], or to fine which may extend to 9898. Word, figure and brackets ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [three thousand] rupees, or to both.

(2) If any person not employed as aforesaid consumes any such 96a96a. Word subs. for the word "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] on such premises, he shall be liable to 9999. Words subs. for the words "or transport" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [imprisonment for a term which may extend to three months or to fine which may extend to one thousand rupees or to both].

Section 54 Penalty for failing to produce license etc. by licensee or his servants

11. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. If any holder of a licence, permit or pass granted under this Act, or any person in his employ and acting on his behalf, fails to produce such licence, permit or pass on the demand of any officer duly empowered by the State Government, in this behalf to make such demand shall be liable to fine which may extend to 22. Words subs. for the words "for the retail sale of any intoxicant:" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [five thousand rupees.]

Section 54A Penalty for contravention of sections 85 and 86 and conditions of licence, etc

(a) in any case not provided for in sections 46 and 46A wilfully contravenes any rule made under section 85 or section 86, or

(b) wilfully does any act. in breach of any of the conditions of the licence, permit or pass, for which a penalty is not prescribed elsewhere in this Act, shall be liable to fine which may extend to 33. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [five thousand rupees].

Section 55 Import, export, transport, manufacture, sale or possession by one person on account of another

(1) When any 44. Clause (0 ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] has been 55. Words, figures, letters and brackets ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [imported, exported, transported], manufactured or sold or is possessed by any person on account of any other person, and such other person knows or has reason to believe that such 55. Words, figures, letters and brackets ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [import, export, transport,] manufacture or sale was, or that such possession is, on his account, the article shall, for the purposes of this Act, be deemed to have been 55. Words, figures, letters and brackets ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [imported, exported transported,] manufactured or sold by, or to be in the possession of, such other person.

(2) Nothing in sub-section (1) shall absolve any person who 55. Words, figures, letters and brackets ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [imports, exports, transports,] manufactures, sells or has possession of an 44. Clause (0 ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [intoxicant] on account of another person from liability to any punishment under this Act for the unlawful 55. Words, figures, letters and brackets ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [import, export, transport,] manufacture, sale or possession of such article.

Section 56 Criminal liability of licensee for acts of servant

When any offence punishable under 66. Word, figure and brackets subs. for word, letter and brackets "clause (a)" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [section 46, section 46A, section 49, section 50, section 51, section 52, section 54 or section 54A] is committed by any person in the employ and acting on behalf of the holder of a license, permit or pass granted under this Act, such holder shall also be 77. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898." by W.B. Act 5 of 1997, w.e.f. 1.4.74. [deemed to have] himself committed the offence, unless he establishes that all due and reasonable precautions were exercised by him to prevent the commission of such offence 88. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [, and shall, subject to the provisions of section 57, be punishable accordingly].

Section 57 Imprisonment under section 55 or section 56

No person other than the actual offender shall be punished under section 55 or . section 56 with imprisonment, except in default of payment of a fine.

Section 58 Penalty on Excise Officer making vexatious search, seizure, detention or arrest, or refusing duty, or being guilty of cowardice

If any Excise Officer,

(a) without reasonable grounds of suspicion, searches or causes to be searched, any place, under colour of exercising any power conferred by this Act, or

(b) vexatiously and unnecessarily seizes any property of any person on the pretence of seizing or searching for any article liable to confiscation under this Act, or

(d) without lawful excuse, ceases or refuses to perform, or withdraws himself from, the duties of his office, unless expressly allowed to do so in writing by the Collector or unless he has given to his immediate superior two months' notice in writing of his intention to do so, or

(e) is guilty of cowardice,he shall be liable to imprisonment for a term which may extend to 99. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [one year], or to fine which may extend to 1010. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [two thousand] rupees, or to both.

Section 59 Penalty for offences not otherwise punishable

If any person is convicted of any act in contravention of any of the provisions of this Act, or of any rule, notification or order made, issued or given under this Act, for which a penalty is not prescribed elsewhere in this Act, he shall be liable to fine which may extend to 1111. Words subs. for the words, figures and brackets "under section 14, subsection (1)," by W.B.. Act 34 of 1965. [five thousand rupees].

Section 60 Penalty for contempt of Court

Every proceeding under this Act before a Collector, or before any officer, of such rank as the 1212. Word "British" om. by the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. removal of any 13[intoxicant] from any such warehouse or from any distillery or brewery ; [State Government] may by notification, prescribe, who is exercising powers of a Collector, shall be deemed to be a "judicial proceeding" within the meaning of section 228 of the Indian Penal Code 1313. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [and every Collector or Officer holding such proceeding and shall, for the purposes of "(sections 345, 346 and 348 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973), be deemed to be a revenue Court].

Section 61 Penalty for attempt to commit offence

Whoever attempts to commit any offence punishable under this Act shall be liable to the punishment provided for such offence 1515. Word subs. for the words "excisable articles" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [or aids or abets commission of any offence].

Section 62 .Enhanced punishment after previous conviction

1616. Words subs. for the words "other disposal" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965.

(1) If any person convicted of an offence under section 46 or clause (i) of section 46A or clause (b) of section 48 or section 52 or section 53 subsequently commits, and is convicted of, the same offence as aforesaid, then, he shall, subject to the proviso to clause (i) of section 46A and clause (2) of the proviso to section 48, be liable for the second and for every subsequent offence to twice the punishment which might be imposed on him on first conviction for any such offence.

(2) If any person convicted of an offence under clause (ii) of section 46A or clause (a) of section 48 subsequently commits, and is convicted of, the same offence as aforesaid, then, he shall, subject to the proviso to clause (ii) of section 46A and clause (1) of the proviso to section 48, be liable for the second and for every subsequent offence to imprisonment for a term which may extend to seven years and to fine.

Section 63 What things are liable to confiscation

(1) Whenever an offence has been committed which is punishable under this Act, the 1717. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant], materials, still, utensil, implement and apparatus in respect of or by means of which such offence has been committed shall be liable to confiscation.

(2) Any 1717. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] lawfully imported, transported, manufactured, had in possession or sold along with, or in addition to, any 1717. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] which is liable to confiscation under sub-section (1), and the receptacles, packages and coverings in which any such 1717. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] as aforesaid, or any such materials, still, utensil, implement or apparatus as aforesaid, is found, and the other contents, if any, of such receptacles or packages, and the animals, carts, vessels, rafts or other conveyances used in carrying the same, shall likewise be liable to confiscation :

Provided that no animal, cart, vessel, raft or other conveyance as aforesaid shall be liable to confiscation unless the owner thereof is proved to have been implicated in the commission of the offence.

1818. Clause (14) subs. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. Previous clause (14) was as under : "(14) for regulating the disposal of things confiscated under this Act,". Explanation. For the purposes of this section, "owner" includes, in relation to any animal, cart, vessel, raft or other conveyance,

(a) which is in the possession of a minor, the guardian of such minor, or

(b) which is the subject of a hire purchase agreement, the person in possession thereof under that agreement.

Section 64 Confiscation by Magistrate or Collector

(1) When, in any case tried by him, the Magistrate decides that anything is liable to confiscation under section 63. he may either order confiscation or give the owner of such thing an option to pay, in lieu of confiscation, such fine as the Magistrate thinks fit :

1919. 'Explanation' renumbered as 'Explanation I' and 'Explanation II ins. by W.B. Act 50 of 1974. Provided that the Magistrate shall in all cases order confiscation of the intoxicants decided by him to be liable to confiscation under section 63.

(2) Whenever anything is liable to confiscation under section 63, and the offender or the person entitled to possession is not known or cannot be found, the case shall be inquired into and determined by the Collector, who may order confiscation :

Provided that no such order shall be made until the expiration of 2020. Words subs. for the words "Calcutta Gazette" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [two months] from the date of seizing the thing intended to be confiscated, or without 2121. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [giving such person as may, before such expiration, claim any right thereto, an opportunity of being heard and of producing such evidence as he may like to produce] in support of his claim :

Provided, further, that if the thing in question is liable to speedy and natural decay, or if the Collector is of opinion that its sale would be for the benefit of its owner, the Collector may at any time direct it to be sold ; and the provisions of this sub-section shall, as nearly as may be practicable, apply to the net proceeds of the sale.

Section 65 Power to compound offences and to release property liable to confiscation

(1) 2222. Words subs. for the words "or by the process prescribed" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [The Excise Commissioner, the Collector], or any Excise Officer 2323. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [not below the rank of Inspector of Excise, authorised by the Collector by general or special order in this behalf],

(a) may accept from any person whose license, permit or pass is liable to be cancelled or suspended under clause (a), clause

(b) or clause (c) of 24(sub-section (1) of section 42], or who is reasonably suspected of having committed an offence punishable under 2525. Sec. 92 renumbered as sub-sec.(1) of that sec. and sub-sec. (2) ins. by W.B. Act 40 of 1979. [any section of this Act other than 26(section 46A, section 48), section 58], payment of a sum of money, 2727. Sec. 92A ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [not exceeding fifty thousand rupees,] in lieu of such cancellation or suspension or by way of composition for such offence, as the case may be ; and

(b) in any case in which any property has been seized as being liable to confiscation under section 63, may, at any time 2828. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "Section 261 of the Bengal Municipal Act 1884" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [before the case is lodged before the Magistrate], release the property on payment of any sum not exceeding the value thereof as estimated by the Collector or such Excise Officer.

(2) When the payments referred to in sub-section (1) have been duly made, the accused person, if in custody, shall be discharged, and the property seized (if any) shall be released ; and not further proceeding shall be taken against such person or property.

CHAPTER 9 Detection, Investigation and Trial of Offences and Procedure

Section 66 Power to enter and inspect, and power to test and seize,measures, etc

Any of the following officers, namely,

(a) the Excise Commissioner, or

(b) a Collector,

(c) any Excise Officer not below such rank as the 2929. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [State Government] may, by notification, prescribe, may, subject to any restrictions prescribed by the 2929. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [State Government] by rule made under section 85,

(i) enter and inspect, at any time by day or night, any place in which any licensed manufacturer carries on the manufacture of, or stores, any 3030. Word subs. for the words "excisable articles" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [intoxicants] ; and

(ii) enter and inspect, any time during which the same may be open, any place in which any 3131. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] 3232. Words subs. for the words "is kept" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [is sold or kept] for sale by any licensed person ; and

3333. Clause (iia) ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. (iia) examine the 3434. Words subs. for the words "accounts and registers" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [accounts, registers, passes and such other documents as may be prescribed by the State Government by rule made under section 85 in this behalf] maintained in any such place as aforesaid ; and

(iii) examine, test, measure or weigh any materials, stills, utensils, implements, apparatus or 34a34a. Words subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [intoxicant] found in any such place as aforesaid ; and

3535. Clause (iiia) ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. (iiia) seize any intoxicant (including any sample of any intoxicant), materials, stills, utensils, implements, or apparatus referred to in clause (i), clause (ii) or clause (in) together with any accounts, registers, passes and other documents referred to. or connected with those referred to, in clause (iia) found in any such place as aforesaid;

(iu) examine or test and seize any measures, weights or testing instruments, found in any such place as aforesaid, which he has reason to believe to be false.

Section 67 Power to arrest without warrant to seize articles liable to confiscation, and to make searches

Any of the following persons, namely,

(a) any officer of the 3636. Words subs. for the words "Excise. Police, Salt, Customs. Opium" by Ben. Act 1 of 1939. [Excise and Salt, Police, Customs] or Land- revenue Department, or

(b) any person empowered by the 3737. Words subs. by the Governmnt of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] in this behalf, by notification, may, subject to any restrictions prescribed by the 3737. Words subs. by the Governmnt of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] by rule made under section 85,

(i) arrest without warrant any person found committing an offence punishable under section 46, 3838. Words, figures and letter ins. by W.B. Act 12 of 1979. [section 46A], section 48, section 52, or section 53 ; and

(ii) seize and detain any article which he has reason to believe to be liable to confiscation under this Act or any other law for the time being in force relating to the excise-revenue ; and

(iii) detain and search any person upon whom, and any vessel, raft, vehicle, animal, package, receptacle or covering in or upon which, he may have reasonable cause to suspect any such article to be.

Section 68 Power to issue warrant of arrest

The Collector, 3939. Words ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [or any Magistrate empowered to try offences punishable under this Act,] may issue a warrant for the arrest of any person whom he has reason to believe to have committed 3939. Words ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [or abetted the commission of] any offence punishable under section 46, 3838. Words, figures and letter ins. by W.B. Act 12 of 1979. [section 46A], section 48, section 52 or section 53.

Section 69 Power to issue search warrant

If any Collector, or 4040. Words subs. for the word "Magistrate" by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [any Magistrate empowered to try offences punishable under this Act,] upon information received, and after such inquiry (if any) as he thinks necessary, has reason to believe that any offence punishable under section 46, 3838. Words, figures and letter ins. by W.B. Act 12 of 1979. [section 46A,] section 48, section 52 or section 53 has been, or is likely to be committed 4141. Words ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [or abetted,] he may issue a warrant to search for 4242. Words ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [and to seize] any 4343. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [intoxicant], material, still, utensil, implement or apparatus in respect of which the alleged offence has been, or is likely to be, committed 4141. Words ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [or abetted] 4444. Words within third brackets ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [or 45(any document or other article which may furnish evidence of the commission of the alleged offence.)]

Section 69A Power of Collector or Magistrate to arrest or search without issuing a warrant

4646. Sec. 69A ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. The Collector, or any Magistrate empowered to try offences punishable under this Act, may at any time

(a) arrest, or direct the arrest in his presence of, any person for whose arrest he is competent at the time and in the circumstances to issue a warrant under section 68, or

(b) search, or direct a search to be made in his presence of, any place for the search of which he is competent to issue a search- warrant under section 69.

Section 70 Power of Excise Officer to search without a warrant

Whenever 4747. Words "a Collector or" om. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. ***** any Excise Officer not below such rank as the 4848. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] may, by notification, prescribe, has reason to believe that an offence punishable under section 46, 4949. Word, figures and letter ins. by W.B. Act 12 of 1979. [section 46A,] section 48, section 52 or section 53 has been, is being, or is likely to be, committed 5050. Words ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [or abetted,] and that a search-warrant cannot be obtained without affording the offender and opportunity of escaping or of concealing evidence of the offence. he may, after recording the grounds of his belief, at any time by day or night enter and search any place, and may seize any thing found therein which he has reason to believe to be liable to confiscation under this Act 5151. Words ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [together with any document which may furnish evidence of the commission of the alleged offence] ; and may detain and search, and if he thinks proper, arrest, any person found in such place whom he has reason to believe to have committed 5050. Words ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [or abetted] any such offence as aforesaid.

Section 71 Information and aid to Excise Officers

(1) Every Officer of the 5252. Words subs. for the words "Police. Excise and Salt, Customs and Land- revenue Departments, and every officer employed by a body of Port Commissioners," by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [State Government] shall be bound, subject to any rules made under section 85, 5353. Word, figure and brackets ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [sub-section (2), ] clause (I), to give immediate information to an Excise Officer of all breaches of any of the provisions of this Act which may come to his knowledge.

(2) Every Officer referred to in sub-section (1), and every village chaukidar and dafadar, shall be bound, subject to any rules made under section 85, 5353. Word, figure and brackets ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [sub-section (2),] clause (I), to give reasonable aid to any Excise Officer in carrying out the provisions of this Act, or of any rule, notification or order made, issued or given under this Act, upon request made by such Officer.

Section 72 Duty of owners and occupiers of land and other persons to give notice of unlicensed manufacture

Whenever any 5454. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] is manufactured, or any hemp plant (Cannabis sativa) 5555. Words ins. by W.B. Act 5 of 1997. [from which an intoxicating drug can be manufactured or produced] is cultivated, or any portion of the hemp plant (Cannabis satiua] from which an intoxicating drug can be manufactured or produced is collected, on any land 5656. Words ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [or in any hut or building], in contravention of this Act, all owners and occupiers of such land 5656. Words ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [or of such hut or building, as the case may be], and their agents, and all panchayats, village- headmen, patwaris. sarbarakars, chaukidars and dafadars of the village 5656. Words ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [in which such land, hut or building may be situated], shall, in the absence of reasonable excuse, be bound to give notice of the fact to a Magistrate or an officer of the Excise, Police or Land- revenue Department, as soon as the fact comes to their knowledge.

Section 73 Power to Collector and certain Excise Officers to investigate offences

(1) A Collector may, without the order of a Magistrate, investigate any offence punishable under this Act which a Court having jurisdiction over the local area within the limits of the Collector's jurisdiction would have power to inquire into or try under the provisions of 5757. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "Chapter XV of the Code of Criminal Procedure. 1898," by W.B. Act 38 of 1983. [Chapter XIII of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973,] relating to the place of inquiry or trial.

(2) Any other Excise Officer specially empowered in this behalf by the 5858. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] in respect of all or any specified class of offences punishable under this Act may, without the order of a Magistrate, investigate any such offence which a Court having juris- diction over the local area to which such Officer is appointed would have power to inquire into or try under the aforesaid provisions.

Section 74 Powers and duties of Collector and certain Excise Officers investigating offences

(1) Any Collector, or any Excise Officer em- powered under section 73, sub-section (2), may, after recording in writing his reason for suspecting the commission of an offence which he is empowered jto investigate, exercise

(a) any of the powers conferred upon a Police Officer making an investigation, or upon an officer in charge of a police-station, 5959. Words and figures "by section 166 to 171 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973." first subs. for the words and figures "sections 166 to 171 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898." by W.B. Act 38 of 1983, w.e.f. 1.4.74, then the words and figures within third brackets subs. for the words and figures "by sections 166 to 171 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. 1973." by W.B. Act 5 of 1997. [by sections 160 to 171 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973,] and

(b) as regards offences punishable under section 46, 6060. Word, figures and letter ins. by W.B. Act 12 of 1979. [section 46A,] section 48, section 52 or section 53 of this Act any of the powers conferred upon Police Officers in respect of cognizable offences 6161. Words, figures, letter and brackets subs. for the words, figures and brackets "by clause first of sub-section (1) of section 54 and by section 56 of the said Code:" by W.B. Act 38 of 1983. [by clause (a) of sub-section (1) of section 41 and by section 55 of the said Code ;] and the said portion of the said Code shall apply accordingly, subject to any restrictions or modifications prescribed by the 6262. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] by rule made under section 85, clause (o).

(2) Subject to any restrictions prescribed by the 6262. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government], a Collector, or an Excise Officer empowered under section 73, subsection (2), may, without reference to a Magistrate, and for reasons to be recorded by him in writing, stop further proceedings against any person concerned, or supposed to be concerned, in any offence which he or any Excise Officer subordinate to him has investigated.

(3) For the purposes of 6363. Words and fugures subs. for the words and figures "section 156 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. [section 156 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973,] the area to which an Excise Officer empowered under section 73, sub-section (2), is appointed shall be deemed to be a policestation, and, such Officer shall be deemed to be the officer in charge of such, station.

(4) As soon as an investigation by a Collector or by an Excise Officer empowered under section 73, sub-section (2), has been completed, if it appears that there is sufficient evidence to justify the forwarding of the accused to a Magistrate, the investigating officer, unless he proceeds under sub-section (2) of this section or under section 65 of this Act, shall submit a report (which shall, for the purposes of 6464. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "section 190 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W . B. Act 38 of 1983. [section 190 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973,] be deemed to be a policereport) to a Magistrate having jurisdiction to inquire into or try the case and empowered to take cognizance of offences on police-reports.

Section 75 Security and Bail

(1) 6565. Words subs. for the words "Whenever a Collector issues a warrant under this Act for the arrest of any person, he shall direct," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965 [A Collector or a Magistrate having jurisdiction under section 82 to try the case may issue a warrant under. this Act for the arrest of any person, and may, at his discretion direct,] by endorsement on the warrant 6666. Words, figures, letters and brackets "except when such person is arrested for committing an offence under section 46A or clause (a) of section 48" first ins. by W.B. Act 12 of 1979, then the words, figures, letters and brackets "clause (ii) of section 46A" subs. for word, figures and letter "section 46A" by W.B. Act 38 of 1983. then the words figures and letter within first brackets subs. for the words, figures, letters and brackets "under clause (ifl of section 46A or clause (a) of section 48" by W. B. Act 5 of 1997. [except when such person is arrested for committing an offence (under section 46A or section 48) that, if such person executes a bond with sufficient sureties for his attendance, before the Collector or before an Excise Officer empowered under section 73, sub-section (2), to investigate the case, at a specified time and thereafter until otherwise directed by the Collector or an Excise Officer empowered as aforesaid, the officer to whom the warrant is directed shall 6767. Words subs. for the words "take such security, and shall release such person from custody" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [release such person from custody if such bond is executed by him.)

(2) The endorsement shall state

(a) the number of sureties,

(b) the amount in which they, and the person for whose arrest the warrant is issued, are respectively to be bound, and

(3) Whenever security is taken under this section, the officer to whom the warrant is directed shall forward the bond to the Collector or to an Excise Officer empowered as aforesaid.

6868. Sub-section (4) om. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. Sub-section (4) was as under : "(4) Whenever any person is arrested under this Act, othewise than under a warrant, and is prepared to give bail, he shall be released on bail, or, at the discretion of the Officer releasing him, on his own bond.". (4)* * * * * * *

(5) Any Excise Officer not below such rank as the 6969. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937, and the Adaptation of Laws Order. 1950. [State Government] may, by notification, prescribe, may release persons on bail or on their own bond 7070. Words, figures and letter within third brackets ins. by W. B. Act 12 of 1979. [except when such person is arrested for committing an offence "{punishable 72(under section 46A or section 48)}].

(6) Bonds taken under this section from persons arrested otherwise than under warrant shall bind such persons to appear before the Collector or an Excise Officer empowered under section 73, sub-section (2) to investigate the case.

7373. Sub-section (6a) ins. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. (6a) A bond taken under this section shall, for the purposes of sub- section (7), be deemed to be a bond under 7474. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "the Code of Criminal Procedures, 1898," by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. [the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973.)

(7) The provisions of 7575. Figures and letters ", 514A, 514B" first ins. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965, then the words and figures subs. for the words and figures "sections 498 to 502, 513, 514, 514A, 514B and 515 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. [sections 439 to 449 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973,] shall apply, so far as may be, in every case in which bail is accepted or a bond taken under this section.

Section 76 Production of articles seized and persons arrested

(1) Articles seized under 7676. Words subs. for the words "the warrant of the Collector," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [a warrant issued under this Act] and, unless security for their appearance before the Collector 7777. Words, figures and brackets ins. by by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [or an Excise Officer empowered under section 73, sub-section (2), to investigate the case] be taken, persons arrested under such a warrant, shall be produced before the Collector 7878. Words ins. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [or such Excise Officer).

(2) Articles seized under section 66, section 67 or section 69, and persons arrested under this Act by persons or officers not having authority to release arrested persons on bail or on their own bond, shall be produced before or forwarded to

(a) the Collector or an Excise Officer empowered under section 73, sub-section (2), to investigate the case, or

(b) the nearest Excise Officer who has authority to release arrested persons on bail or on their own bond, or

(3) When a person arrested is produced before an Excise Officer who has authority to release arrested persons on bail or on their own bond, or before an officer in charge of a police-station, such officer shall forward such person to, or take security for his appearance before, the Collector or the Excise Officer empowered under section 73, sub-section (2), to investigate the case.

(4) When any article seized cannot conveniently be conveyed before an officer referred to in sub-section (1) or sub-section (2), as the case may be, the person making the seizure shall 7979. Words subs. for the words "dispose of them" by W. B. Act 34 of "1965. [dispose of such article] in some place of safety and forthwith report the seizure to such an officer.

8080. Sub-section (5) ins. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. (5) Notwithstanding anything elsewhere contained in this Act, when an article seized under section 66, section 67, section 69 or section 70 is subject to speedy decay, such article may be destroyed in accordance with rules made under section 86, clause (14).

Section 77 Custody by Police of articles seized

(1) All officers in charge of police-stations shall take charge of and keep in safe custody, pending the orders of a Magistrate, or of the Collector, or of an Excise Officer empowered under section 73, sub-section (2), to investigate the case, 8181. Words subs. for the words "all articles seized" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [all persons arrested and all articles seized] under this Act 8282. Words subs. for the words "which may be delivered" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [and brought or delivered] to them ; and shall allow any Excise Officer who may 8383. Words subs. for the words "accompany such articles" by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [accompany any such articles] to the police-station, or who may be deputed for the purpose by an official superior, to affix his seal to such articles and to take samples of and from them.

(2) All samples so taken shall be sealed with the seal of the officer in charge of the police-station.

Section 78 Reports of arrests, seizures and searches

8484. Section 78 renumbered as sub-section (1) of that section and sub-section (2) ins. by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. (1) When any Excise Officer below the rank of Collector, or any officer in charge of a police-station, makes, or receives information of, any arrest, seizure or search under this Act, he shall, within twenty-four hours thereafter, make a full report of all the particulars of the arrest, seizure or search, or of the information received, to the Collector and to the Excise Officer (if any) empowered under section 73, sub-section (2), within the local limits of whose jurisdiction the arrest, seizure or search was made.

8484. Section 78 renumbered as sub-section (1) of that section and sub-section (2) ins. by W. B. Act 38 of 1983. (2) Upon receipt of the report under sub-section (1), the Collector may, without the order of a Magistrate having jurisdiction to try the case and before any report is submitted to such Magistrate under subsection (4) of section 74, pass such order as he may deem fit for the custody of the intoxicants and other articles, if any, seized under this Act.

Section 79 Execution of warrant

8585. Section 79 subs. by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. Previous section 79 was as under: "79. Execution of Collector's warrant. Any warrant issued by a Collector may be executed by any officer selected by the Collector for the purpose: Provided that no warrant issued by the Collector for execution in that part of the Calcutta district in which the administration of the Police is vested in the Commissioner of Police shall be executed by any Police Officer who is subordinate to the said Commissioner, unless it be endorsed by a Police Officer duly empowered in that behalf under section 7, clause (d).". Any warrant issued by a Collector or a Magistrate under this Act may be executed by the Officer to whom the warrant is directed or by any other Officer selected by the Collector or the Magistrate for the purpose.

Section 80 Maximum period of detention

(1) No person arrested under this Act shall be detained in custody for a longer period than under all the circumstances of the case is reasonable ; and such period 8686. Words subs. for the words "shall not exceed twenty-four hours," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [shall not, without the authority of a Magistrate, exceed twenty-four hours,] exclusive of the time necessary for the journey from the place of arrest 8787. Words subs. for the words, figures and brackets "to the place where a Collector or an Excise Officer empowered under section 73. sub-section (2), to investigate the case may be, and thence to the Court of a Magistrate having jurisdiction to inquire into or try the case." by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [to the Court of the nearest Magistrate].

(2) A Magistrate to whom an accused person is forwarded under 8888. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "section 167 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W. B. Act 38 of 1983, w.e.f. 1.4.74. [section 167 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973,] by a Collector or an Excise Officer empowered under section 73, sub-section (2), may exercise the powers conferred upon a Magistrate by the said section 167.

Section 81 Application of certain provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898

(1) Save as is in this Act otherwise expressly provided, the provisions of 8989. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "the Code of Criminal Procedure. 1898" by W. B. Act 38 of 1983, w.e.f. 1.4.74. [the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973,] relating to arrests, detentions in custody, searches, summonses, warrants of arrest, search-warrants and the production of persons arrested, shall apply, so far as may be, to arrests, detentions and searches made, summonses and far as may be, to arrests, detentions and searches made, summonses and warrants issued, and the production of persons arrested under this Act.

(2) For the purposes of the said provisions of the said Code, a Collector shall be deemed to be a Court.

(3) Officers 9090. Words subs. for the words "to whom a Collector's warrant is directed or endorsed," by W. B. Act 34 of 1965. [executing any warrant issued under this Act,] and officers (other than Collectors) making arrests, searches or seizures under this Act, shall, for the purposes of the said provisions of the said Code, be deemed to be Police Officers.

Section 82 Magistrates having jurisdiction to try offences

(a) the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate, or

(b) the Chief Judicial Magistrate, or

(d) an Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate, or

(e) a Metropolitan Magistrate, or

(f) a Judicial Magistrate of the first class, or

(g) a Judicial Magistrate of the second class, shall try any offence punishable under this Act.

Section 83 Initiation of certain prosecutions

No Magistrate shall take cognizance of an offence referred to

(a) in section 46, 9292. Word, figures and letter ins. by W. B. Act 12 of 1979. [section 46A,] section 48, section 52 or section 53, except on his own knowledge or suspicion, or on the complaint or report of an Excise Officer or an officer empowered in this behalf by the 9393. Words, subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] ; or

(b) in section 54, 9494. Word, figures and letter ins. by W. B. Act 12 of 1979. [section 54A,] section 58, clause (d) or clause (e), or section 59, except on the complaint or report of the Collector or an Excise Officer authorised by the Collector in this behalf.

Section 84 Bar to transfer of trial on application of accused

Theprovisions of 9595. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "section 191 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898," by W.B. Act 38 of 1983, w.e.f. 1.4.74.96. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [section 191 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973,] shall not apply in any case in which a Magistrate (not being the Collector) takes cognizance of an offence under this Act on the report of any officer referred to in clause (a) or clause (fo) of section 83.

CHAPTER 10 Miscellaneous

Section 85 Power of State Government to make rules

(1) The 9696. Words "one year and shall also be liable to fine which may extend to two thousand rupees" first subs, for the words "six months, or to fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or to both" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965, then the words' within third brackets subs. for the words "one year and shall also be liable to fine which may extend to two thousand rupees" by W.B. Act 38 of 1983. [State Government] may make rules to carry out the objects of this Act or any other law for the time being in force relating to the excise-revenue.

(2) In particular, and, without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing provision, the 9696. Words "one year and shall also be liable to fine which may extend to two thousand rupees" first subs, for the words "six months, or to fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or to both" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965, then the words' within third brackets subs. for the words "one year and shall also be liable to fine which may extend to two thousand rupees" by W.B. Act 38 of 1983. [State Government] may make rules

(a) for prescribing the powers and duties of officers of the Excise Department ;

(b) for regulating the delegation of any powers by 97* * the Commissioner of a Division, the Excise Commissioner or Collectors under section 7, 9898. Word, figure and brackets ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [sub-section (2),] clause (g) ;

(c) for declaring in what cases or classes of cases and to what authorities appeals shall lie from orders whether original or appellate, passed under this Act or under any rule made hereunder, and for prescribing the time and manner for presenting, and the procedure for dealing with, such appe als ;

(d) for regulating the import, export, 9999. Words subs. for the words "or transport" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [transport, sale, purchase, possession or consumption] of any 11. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] ;

(e) for regulating the periods for which licenses for the wholesale or retail vend of any 11. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] may be granted, and the number of such licenses which may be granted for any local area ;

(f) for prohibiting the grant of licenses for the retail sale of any 11. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] at any place or within any local area described in the rules, or for defining the places in the vicinity of which shops for the retail sale of any 11. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] shall not ordinarily be licensed ;

(g} for prohibiting the grant to specified classes of persons of licenses 22. Words subs. for the words "for the retail sale of any intoxicant:" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [of any particular kind or class ;]

(h) for declaring, either generally, or in respect of areas described in the rules, the persons or classes of persons to whom any 33. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] may or may not be sold ;

44. Clause (0 ins. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. (i) for prescribing restrictions subject to which a license, permit or pass granted under this Act may be cancelled or suspen- ded ;

(j) for regulating the procedure to be followed and prescribing the matters to be ascertained before any license for the wholesale or retail vend of any 33. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] is granted for any loca-lity;

(k) for restricting the exercise of any of the powers conferred by 55. Words, figures, letters and brackets ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. [section 65, 6{sub-section (1),} and] sections 66 and 67 ;

(i) for declaring the Excise Officers to whom, and the manner in which, information or aid should be given under section 71 ;

(m) for the grant of expenses to witnesses ;

(n) for the grant of compensation for loss of time to persons released by any Excise Officer under this Act on the ground that they have been improperly arrested, and to persons charged before a Magistrate with offences punishable under this Act and subsequently acquitted ; and

(o) for prescribing restrictions or modifications in the application to Excise Officers of the provisions of 77. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898." by W.B. Act 5 of 1997, w.e.f. 1.4.74. [the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973,] relating to powers of Police Officers which are referred to in section 74, sub-section (1), of this Act.

(3) The powers conferred by this section for making rules are subject to the condition that the rules be made after previous publication :

Provided that any such rules may be made without previous publication if the 88. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] considers that they should be brought into force at once.

Section 86 Further power of State Government to make rules

The 99. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] may make rules

(1) for regulating the manufacture, supply or storage of any 1010. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant], and in particular, and without prejudice to the generality of this provision, may make rules for regulating

(a) the establishment, inspection, supervision, management and control of any place for the manufacture, supply or storage of any 1010. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant], and the provision and maintenance of fittings, implements and apparatus therein ;

(b) the bottling of liquor for purposes of sale ;

(d) the collection of portions of the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa) from which intoxicating drugs can be manufactured or produced, and the manufacture or production of intoxi- cating drugs therefrom ;

(e) the tapping of tari-producing trees and the drawing of tari from trees ;

(f) the marking of tari-producing trees in areas notified 1111. Words subs. for the words, figures and brackets "under section 14, subsection (1)," by W.B.. Act 34 of 1965. [in this behalf by the State Government;] and the maintenance of such marks,

(2) for fixing the strength, price or quantity in excess of or below which any 1010. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] shall not be supplied or sold, and the quantity in excess of which denatured spirit shall not be possessed, and for prescribing a standard of quality for any 1010. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] ;

(3) for declaring how spirit manufactured in 1212. Word "British" om. by the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. removal of any 13[intoxicant] from any such warehouse or from any distillery or brewery ; * * India shall be denatured ;

(4) for causing spirit so manufactured to be denatured through the agency or under the supervision of 99. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [servants of the Government] ;

(5) for ascertaining whether any spirit so manufactured has been denatured ;

(6) for regulating the deposit of any 1010. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] in a warehouse established, authorised or continued under this Act, and the

(7) for prescribing the scale of fees or the manner of fixing the fees payable in respect of any exclusive privilege granted under section 22 or any license, permit or pass granted under this Act, or in respect of the storing of any 1313. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [intoxicant] ;

(8) for regulating the time, place and manner of payment of such fees ;

(9) for prescribing the restrictions under which or the conditions on which any license, permit or pass, may be granted, and in particular, and without prejudice to the generality of this provision, may make rule for

(i) prohibiting the admixture with any 1313. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [intoxicant] of any article deemed to be noxious or objectionable,

(ii) regulating or prohibiting the reduction of liquor by a licensed manufacturer or licensed vendor from a higher to a lower strength,

(iii) prescribing the nature and regulating the arrangement of the premises in which any 1313. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [intoxicant] may be sold, and prescribing the notices to be exposed at such premises,

(iv) prohibiting or regulating the employment by the licensee of any person or class of persons to assist him in his business,

(v) prohibiting the sale of any 1313. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order. 1937. [intoxicant] except for cash,

(vi) prescribing the days and hours during which any licensed premises may or may not be kept open, and providing for the closing of such premises on special occasions,

1414. Sub-clause (uii) subs. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. Previous sub-clause (mi) was as under : "(vii) prescribing the accounts to be maintained and the returns to be submitted by licensees, and". (vii) prescribing the accounts and registers (if any) to be maintained and the returns to be submitted by the licensees relating to their business,

(10) for prescribing the particulars to be contained in licenses, permits or passes granted under this Act :

(11) for the payment of compensation to licenses whose premises are closed under section 26 or under any rule made under sub-clause (ufl of clause (9) of this section ;

(12) for prescribing the time, place and manner of levying duty on 1515. Word subs. for the words "excisable articles" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicants] ;

(13) for providing for the destruction or 1616. Words subs. for the words "other disposal" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [for the disposal in any other manner.] of any 1717. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] deemed to be unfit for use ; and

1818. Clause (14) subs. by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. Previous clause (14) was as under : "(14) for regulating the disposal of things confiscated under this Act,". (14) for regulating the disposal or destruction of articles or things confiscated or seized under the provisions of this Act.

1919. 'Explanation' renumbered as 'Explanation I' and 'Explanation II ins. by W.B. Act 50 of 1974. Explanation I). Fees may be prescribed under clause (7) of this section at different rates for different classes of exclusive privileges, licenses, permits, passes or storage, and for different areas.

1919. 'Explanation' renumbered as 'Explanation I' and 'Explanation II ins. by W.B. Act 50 of 1974. Explanation II. The price of an intoxicant as fixed by rules made under clause (2) of this section, shall be deemed to have always been exclusive of any tax, surcharge, additional surcharge or any other impost on the sale or purchase of such intoxicant levied under any law for the time being in force.

Section 87 Powers of Board exercisable from time to time

Rep. by Ben.Act 7 of 1914.

Section 88 Publication and effect of rules and notifications

All rules made, and notifications issued, under this Act shall be published in the 20 20. Words subs. for the words "Calcutta Gazette" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [Official Gazette], and on such publication shall have effect as if enacted in this Act.

Section 89 Recovery of dues

(1) The following moneys, namely,

(a) all excise-revenue,

(b) any loss that may accrue when a grant has been taken under management by the Collector or transferred by him under section 45, and

(c) all amounts due to the 2121. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] by any person on account of any contract relating to the excise-revenue, may be recovered from the person primarily liable to pay the same, or from his surety (if any), by distress and sale of his movable property, 2222. Words subs. for the words "or by the process prescribed" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [and shall also be recoverable by the process authorised] for the recovery of arrears of revenue.

(2) When a grant has been taken under management by the Collector, or has been transferred by him, under section 45, the Collector may recover, in any manner authorized by sub-section (1), any money due to the grantee by any lessee or assignee.

(3) When any money is due, in respect of an exclusive privilege to a grantee referred to in section 23, from any person holding under him, such grantee may apply to the Collector, and the Collector may recover such money on his behalf in either of the ways provided by sub-section (1) :

Provided that nothing in this sub-section shall affect the right of any such grantee to recover any such money by civil suit.

Section 90 Power of State Government to exempt intoxicants from provisions of Act

The 2121. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government] may, by notification, either wholly or partially, and subject to such condition (if any) as it may think fit to prescribe, exempt any 23|intoxicant] from all or any of the provisions of this Act, either throughout 2424. Words subs. for the word "Bengal" by the Indian Independence (Adaptation of Bengal and Punjab Acts) Order, 1948. [West Bengal] or in any specified local area, or for any specified period or occasion or as regards any specified class of persons.

Section 91 Bar to certain suits

No suit shall lie in any Civil Court against the 2121. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [Government] or any Excise Officer for damages for any act in good faith done or ordered to be done in pursuance of this Act or of any other law for the time being in force relating to the excise-revenue.

Section 92 Limitation of suits and prosecutions

2525. Sec. 92 renumbered as sub-sec.(1) of that sec. and sub-sec. (2) ins. by W.B. Act 40 of 1979. (1) No Civil Court shall try any suit against the 2626. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [Government] in respect of anything done, or alleged to have been done, in pursuance of this Act, and, except with the previous sanction of the 2626. Words subs. by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937 and the Adaptation of Laws Order, 1950. [State Government], no Magistrate shall take cognizance of any charge made against any Excise Officer under this Act or any other law relating to the excise- revenue, or made against any other person under this Act, unless the suit or prosecution is instituted within six months after the date of the act complained of.

2525. Sec. 92 renumbered as sub-sec.(1) of that sec. and sub-sec. (2) ins. by W.B. Act 40 of 1979. (2) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Act or in any other law in force for the time being, when any Sub-Inspector of Excise or Assistant Sub-Inspector of Excise or Excise Constable is accused of any offence alleged to have been committed by him while acting or purporting to act in the discharge of his official duty, no Court shall take cognizance of such offence except with the previous sanction of the State Government.

Section 92A Bar to application of section 261 of the Bengal Municipal Act, 1932

2727. Sec. 92A ins. by Ben. Act 7 of 1914. 2828. Words and figures subs. for the words and figures "Section 261 of the Bengal Municipal Act 1884" by W.B. Act 34 of 1965. [Section 370 of the Bengal Municipal Act, 1932], shall not apply to

(a) any distillery, brewery, warehouse or other place of storage licensed, established, authorised, or continued under this Act, or

(b) the premises used for the manufacture or sale of any 2929. Word subs. for the words "excisable article" by the Government of India (Adaptation of Indian Laws) Order, 1937. [intoxicant] by the holder of a license granted under this Act for such manufacture or sale.

Section 93 Repeal

Rep. by Ben. Act 1 of 1939.

SCHEDULE 1 Rep

SCHEDULE by Ben. Act 1 of 1939.

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