A video allegedly showing the open sale of liquor near Lohi Bridge in Madhya Pradesh's Rewa district has sparked controversy and prompted an official inquiry by local authorities. The incident, reported from the Bichhiya Police Station area, has drawn public attention because it surfaced during the ongoing 'Drug-Free Campaign 2.0', an awareness and enforcement initiative being conducted across the Rewa division.

According to local residents, individuals who reached the location recorded a video that purportedly showed liquor being sold in the open. In the footage, a person seen at the site allegedly claimed that the outlet functioned as a branch of a licensed liquor shop located in Bichhiya and that liquor was being sold there for the convenience of nearby villagers.

The authenticity of these claims has not yet been independently verified, and officials have stated that the matter is currently under investigation. Authorities will determine whether the sale was authorized under applicable excise regulations or whether any violations of the law have occurred.

The timing of the incident has intensified public discussion because the Rewa Range is currently conducting the 'Drug-Free Campaign 2.0' under the leadership of Inspector General of Police Gaurav Rajput. The campaign focuses on reducing substance abuse through awareness programmes, enforcement measures, and action against illegal narcotics and other prohibited activities.

The alleged liquor sale near one of the city's entry routes has raised questions among residents regarding compliance with excise regulations and the effectiveness of ongoing enforcement efforts. Several local citizens have demanded a transparent inquiry to establish the facts and determine whether unauthorized liquor sales were taking place.

One aspect of the viral video that has attracted particular attention is the conduct of the individual allegedly seen speaking on camera. According to those who recorded the footage, the person appeared to openly discuss the sale of liquor without hesitation. If the outlet is ultimately found to be operating without the necessary approvals or outside the permitted conditions of a licensed establishment, it could amount to a violation of excise rules.

However, officials have emphasized that the legal status of the outlet will only be determined after a detailed investigation and verification of relevant documents and permissions.

Following circulation of the video, local residents expressed concern about the reported activity near Lohi Bridge. Rajesh Singh, a resident of the area, stated that discussions regarding open liquor sales near the bridge had existed for some time. He claimed that the area experiences increased public movement during the evening hours, affecting the surrounding environment.

Singh said that if liquor is being sold illegally, the police and the Excise Department should take immediate action after verifying the facts. He also stressed the importance of maintaining law and order in public spaces frequently used by residents.

Another local resident, Ramkumar Patel, highlighted that the road near Lohi Bridge is used daily by villagers, women, schoolchildren, and college students. He stated that if unauthorized liquor sales are occurring in such a location, the matter should be treated seriously. Patel called upon the administration to conduct a fair and impartial investigation and to take strict legal action against anyone found violating the law.

Responding to the issue, Bichhiya Police Station House Officer Ankit Mishra confirmed that police became aware of the alleged incident through media reports. He stated that an inquiry has been initiated to verify the claims presented in the video.

According to the police official, if the investigation establishes that liquor was being sold illegally or that provisions of the Excise Act were violated, appropriate legal action will be taken against the individuals found responsible. He further stated that authorities would not tolerate any illegal activity within the jurisdiction.

Police officials have not yet confirmed whether the location shown in the video was an authorized extension of a licensed liquor shop or an entirely unauthorized outlet. This determination will depend on the findings of the ongoing inquiry and verification by the concerned departments.

The investigation is expected to include examination of licensing records, excise permissions, ownership details, and statements from relevant individuals. Authorities may also review the viral video as part of the evidence while assessing whether any offences have been committed under applicable laws.

The incident has once again highlighted the importance of effective monitoring of liquor sales and enforcement of excise regulations in public areas. Residents have urged authorities to ensure that any unauthorized commercial activity is dealt with promptly to maintain public confidence and uphold the rule of law.

As the inquiry continues, officials have appealed to the public to avoid drawing conclusions before the investigation is completed. The outcome of the inquiry will determine whether the allegations are substantiated and whether further legal or administrative action is warranted.