A recent decision by the Assam Excise Department to issue a liquor licence to a bar and restaurant near Gauhati University has sparked a wave of protests from the university administration and local residents, who allege it violates existing laws meant to protect educational zones. The licence in question was granted to Smti Kaberi Das for her establishment, M/S Angel Bar & Restaurant, located in Pandu Sadilapur under Ward No. 01 of Guwahati. The bar, situated along the NH-37 Bypass in Jalukbari, has been allowed to operate under Rule 116 of the Assam Excise Rules, 2016 (as amended). The premises are owned by Sri Karuna Das and fall under Dag No. 669 and Patta No. 78 of Sadilapur village.
Despite the licence being legally sanctioned for one year and subject to renewal, the decision has provoked strong objections from Gauhati University. In a formal letter dated August 13, the University Registrar raised concerns with the Deputy Commissioner of Kamrup (Metro), stating that numerous complaints had been received from the public regarding the proximity of the liquor outlet to the campus. The university argued that the establishment could lead to “unethical activities” in the area and disturb the academic sanctity of the institution. The letter emphasized that students, faculty members, and local residents had expressed serious concerns about the potential social and moral consequences of having a bar so close to an educational institution.
Citing Rule 201 of the Assam Excise Rules, the university highlighted that liquor outlets are strictly prohibited near schools, colleges, and universities. “This decision undermines the spirit of educational sanctity and public welfare,” the letter noted, urging the district administration to revoke the licence immediately. The licence was originally approved following a proposal from the Deputy Commissioner’s office on March 19, 2025, which was forwarded to both the Commissioner of Excise and the Superintendent of Excise, Kamrup (Metro). The move, now under public scrutiny, has drawn criticism for allegedly ignoring regulatory safeguards.
