Happiest Hour Bar’s License Cancelled for Violating Excise Rules

NEBT News Desk, Agartala, 16th September 2025: The license of ‘Happiest Hour’, a restaurant-cum-bar located on the rooftop of the UD Building in Agartala, has been cancelled by the West Tripura district administration. In an official order issued on Tuesday, District Excise Collector Dr. Vishal Kumar (IAS) stated that license holder Gautam Debnath repeatedly violated the conditions of the Excise Act. The investigation revealed that on the night of 6th September, liquor was served and consumed after 11 PM, accompanied by a DJ and dance program conducted without prior permission—acts that directly violated licensing terms. CCTV footage confirmed the violations. Additionally, the bar failed to submit its staff list and did not respond to the showcause notice served earlier. Citing provisions of the Tripura Excise Act, 1987, the administration immediately cancelled License No. 97 of ‘Happiest Hour’. The order also directed the management to submit liquor stock, license documents, records, and CCTV footage. Authorities have warned that non-compliance will invite strict legal action.