Delhi government imposes ‘special corona fee’ on liquor, to charge 70% tax on MRP from today

After Centre allowed liquor sale across all the country Monday, Delhi Government has imposed "Special Corona Fees" of 70 per cent tax on the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) of the liquor, which will be applicable from Tuesday morning.

The Finance Department od Delhi government imposed the fee, describing it as the 70 per cent of the maximum retail price on all categories of liquor sold through retail licensees for consumption "off" the premises.

Followed by the May 4 order from the Finance Department, the Excise Department also issued another order directing the shops to collect the Special Corona Fee on all categories of liquor sold in Delhi though the retail vends with immediate effect.

"The Delhi government has levied a Special Corona Fee -- 70 per cent of the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) -- on all categories of liquor from the consumer at the Point of Sale by the retail vend licensees for consumption off the premises, which will be further reimbursed to the Government," the order signed by Deputy Commissioner (Excise) said.

The announcement came after government revenue has been hit hard due to the coronavirus-forced lockdown. Moreover, some people were seen flouting social distancing norms at the liquor shops which were opened in Delhi on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)