Siliguri, 29th June: The Siliguri Municipal Corporation (SMC) has initiated strict action against Hashtag Bar at Planet Mall on Sevoke Road, ordering the immediate shutdown of a beer manufacturing unit operating within the premises.
According to SMC Commissioner Bir Vikram Rai, notices were issued stating that beer manufacturing machines and related equipment were being used inside the bar premises without valid permission, in violation of municipal rules and public safety norms.
The civic body had earlier, on 15th January 2025, directed the removal of beer production equipment from the premises based on inspection reports dated 9th and 31st August 2024.
However, a fresh inspection conducted on 25th and 27th June 2026 reportedly found that beer production-related equipment was still present and in use, prompting renewed action by the Municipal Corporation.
The notice also states that the building was originally sanctioned on 12th December 2014 for “shop” use only. Converting it into a beer manufacturing unit without prior approval violates the West Bengal Municipal Corporation Act. It was also found that no valid trade licence had been obtained for such activity.
The Municipal Commissioner has directed the owner of Hashtag Bar to immediately stop beer manufacturing operations and remove all related equipment. The SMC has warned of strict legal action in case of non-compliance.