Subheadline:
Questions raised over alleged links between gambling dens, bootlegging networks and purported protection payments; critics ask why enforcement agencies have yet to take visible action despite complaints.
Mehsana | Bureau Report
Despite Gujarat’s prohibition laws and repeated claims of strict law enforcement, Mehsana district is facing growing allegations of becoming a hub for illegal gambling and liquor-related activities. Local residents and whistleblowers claim that illicit operations have expanded across several areas of the district, prompting some critics to label Mehsana as a “Mini Goa” of underground activities.
According to allegations highlighted by Pakko Gujarat News, concerns have been raised regarding the existence of an alleged protection network that reportedly allows illegal businesses to operate with minimal interference. The allegations have not been independently verified by authorities, and no official findings have yet been made public.
Allegations of a Parallel Power Structure
Sources cited in the report claim that certain individuals allegedly function as unofficial “administrators” who influence the operation of illegal activities across the district. Among the names frequently mentioned are Tarun Dabhi and an individual identified as Imran, who is reportedly lodged in Kadi Sub-Jail.
The report alleges that despite being incarcerated, Imran continues to exert influence over illegal networks operating in the district. These claims remain unverified and no official confirmation has been issued by law-enforcement agencies.
Gambling and Liquor Operations Under Scrutiny
Several locations across Mehsana district have been named in complaints and local discussions regarding alleged gambling and liquor operations.
In the Rajpur area under Nandasan police jurisdiction, allegations suggest that large-scale gambling activities are organized in open grounds behind local establishments, reportedly attracting participants from different parts of Gujarat.
Similar allegations have emerged from villages under Bavlu, Gozaria, Bhaiyasar, and Linch jurisdictions, where individuals are accused of operating gambling centers or engaging in illicit liquor distribution.
At the time of publication, the accused individuals had not publicly responded to these allegations.
Alleged Interstate Liquor Connections
The report further alleges that bootlegging networks operating in Mehsana maintain connections with suppliers from neighboring Rajasthan. Claims have been made regarding the transportation of liquor through containers and luxury vehicles into Gujarat.
No official law-enforcement agency has publicly confirmed these allegations, and independent verification remains pending.
Fears Over Illegal Chemical-Based Liquor
Particularly alarming are allegations concerning the manufacture and distribution of illicit country liquor allegedly mixed with hazardous chemicals.
Public safety advocates warn that if such claims prove true, the consequences could be severe, potentially leading to poisoning incidents similar to past liquor tragedies witnessed in different parts of the country.
Complaints Filed, Questions Remain
According to Mahanagar Metro News, complaints regarding these alleged activities were reportedly submitted to local police officials, district authorities, and the State Monitoring Cell (SMC) in Gandhinagar. The publication claims that detailed information and supporting material were also shared with concerned authorities.
Critics argue that despite these representations, no major enforcement action has yet become publicly visible.
Public Demands Accountability
The controversy has fueled public debate over accountability, transparency, and the effectiveness of enforcement mechanisms in tackling organized illegal activities.
Citizens and activists are now demanding a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the allegations. They argue that only a transparent inquiry can establish the facts, determine whether any wrongdoing has occurred, and restore public confidence in the system.
As pressure mounts, attention is turning toward the Home Department and senior law-enforcement authorities, who may face increasing calls to examine the allegations and clarify the official position.
