Karnataka has ordered strict age verification at all pubs, bars, breweries, clubs, lounges, restaurants and other liquor-serving establishments to curb underage drinking and substance abuse among young people. The directive, issued by Home Minister Priyank Kharge, mandates checking government-issued identity documents before entry or alcohol service, with owners and licence holders held accountable for violations.
The move follows concerns over rising alcohol and tobacco use among adolescents, particularly in Bengaluru, where a recent study of over 4,000 students found one in three at risk of health problems linked to substance use. Authorities have also warned of strict legal action against establishments that fail to comply with licensing and surveillance requirements.
Risk From Alcohol Or Tobacco Use
Announcing the directive, Priyank Kharge said police officials across Karnataka had been instructed to issue notices to all liquor-serving venues and ensure strict enforcement of age-verification norms. Citing a recent study conducted by researchers from multiple universities, he highlighted that around 33 per cent of surveyed adolescents reported consuming alcohol, while nearly 18 per cent were addicted to tobacco.
Researchers found the median age of first alcohol consumption was 17 years, with some respondents reporting exposure as early as eight years old. Calling it a public-health and youth-safety issue, Kharge stated, “Commercial profit cannot come at the cost of the safety and future of our children.”
Karnataka Reaffirms Legal Drinking Age
The latest directive builds on Karnataka’s existing legal drinking age of 21 years. In 2023, the state government reaffirmed this limit after withdrawing a proposal to reduce the drinking age to 18, citing objections from the public, associations and media. Under the new measures, establishments must verify identity documents and maintain CCTV surveillance in accordance with licensing rules.
Officials have warned that bars, clubs and restaurants found facilitating underage drinking could face stringent legal action. The government says these steps form part of a broader effort to strengthen safeguards for young people and address growing concerns around substance abuse.
