Be it the Independence Day, Republic Day, or Gandhi Jayanthi, outlets in Coimbatore never seem to consider the ‘Dry Day’ factor as they continue to sell liquor, only this time at a higher cost.

Even on the 70th Independence Day, liquor business was up and running in areas close to TASMAC outlets in Coimbatore, much to the delight of the alcoholics on Monday.

However, according to sources, the prices were 20 per cent higher than normal, due to the “risk involved.” But that hasn’t stopped anyone from buying them, as most of them were seen queuing up eagerly, in the usual spots near TASMAC outlets in areas, including Ramanathapuram, Thudiyalur, Gandhipuram, and Ukkadam.

According to activist A. Manoj from Coimbatore, such sight was common in the district, and Independence Day was no exception. “Liquor sold like hot cake even on election days,” he pointed out.

Claiming that no concrete actions were being taken either by the District Administration or the Police to curb such incidents, Manoj said that prior complaints in this regard fell on deaf ears. “I have filed online complaints and have even given direct representations, but the sale continues,” he complained.

Denying the allegations, a higher official of the Police Department clarified that actions were taken against those who violated the norms. “A few places have been raided and we have detained some persons and seized liquor bottles,” the official informed.