The Aqua Lounge controversy in Ambernath has gained attention after a complaint sought action over alleged unauthorised construction, licensing irregularities and possible excise violations. The representation alleges that approvals connected to the establishment may require verification and calls for scrutiny of municipal permissions, building records and licence-related documentation. Additional concerns have been raised regarding liquor procurement practices, operational compliance and possible revenue implications. The allegations remain unverified and subject to investigation by the relevant authorities.
Ambernath’s The Aqua Lounge Under Scrutiny: Complaint Alleges Illegal Construction, Forged Documents and Excise Violations
A formal complaint has sought criminal action against the operators of The Aqua Lounge in Ambernath East, alleging unauthorised construction, forged documentation for licence approvals, excise violations, and significant revenue losses to the state exchequer.
The Aqua Lounge controversy in Ambernath has intensified after serious allegations were raised regarding an alleged 5,000-square-foot unauthorised structure, suspected licensing irregularities, and possible violations of excise regulations.
According to a complaint submitted to the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and the State Excise Commissioner, Bhojking Foods Pvt. Ltd. and its establishment, The Aqua Lounge, located in Palegaon, Ambernath East, are accused of operating in violation of multiple regulatory requirements.
The complaint alleges that hotel owner Rajesh Tejwani obtained permissions and approvals by relying on documents that were allegedly fabricated or forged. No court has yet adjudicated these allegations, and the claims remain subject to official investigation and verification.
Authorities have been urged to conduct a detailed inquiry into the allegations and determine whether any statutory violations have occurred in relation to the establishment’s operations.
Allegations Relate to Construction and Licensing Process
According to the complaint, a structure measuring approximately 5,000 square feet was allegedly constructed without obtaining the required permissions from the Town Planning Department of the Ambernath Municipal Council.
The complaint further alleges that the premises subsequently obtained an FL-3 liquor licence bearing Licence No. FL-3-2784 and claims that approvals were secured through documents whose authenticity should be examined by the competent authorities.
If established through an official investigation, such findings could raise questions regarding compliance with municipal planning regulations and licensing procedures applicable to hospitality establishments operating within the jurisdiction.
The complainant has requested that authorities verify construction approvals, occupancy permissions, building records, and all documents relied upon during the licence approval process.
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Excise and Revenue Loss Concerns Raised in Complaint
The representation also raises concerns regarding the manner in which foreign liquor is allegedly procured and sold at the establishment.
According to the complaint, nearly 90 per cent of foreign liquor sold at the premises is allegedly sourced from external wine shops and subsequently sold through a counter operating in a manner resembling an FL-2 retail licence arrangement.
The complaint alleges that such practices, if proven, could result in violations of applicable excise regulations and may potentially cause revenue losses to the State Government through reduced collection of taxes and duties.
Additional allegations have been made regarding late-night operations at the establishment. The complaint claims that activities reportedly continue until approximately 2:30 a.m. under the banner of live music programmes, despite questions being raised about the required permissions.
No independent verification of these operational allegations was immediately available, and the matter remains subject to official scrutiny.
Demand for FIR and Probe into Officials
Senior journalist Unmesh Gujarathi has sought registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against Rajesh Tejwani and other persons who may be found responsible following investigation.
The complaint specifically seeks examination of offences under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, including Sections 336, 338, 340, 318(4), and 61, relating to allegations of forgery, cheating, and criminal conspiracy.
The complaint also requests permanent cancellation of the liquor licence and demolition of the allegedly unauthorised structure if violations are confirmed through due legal and administrative processes.
Further, an inquiry has been sought into the role of concerned government and municipal officials who allegedly failed to act despite the purported irregularities highlighted in the complaint.
According to the representation, if timely action is not initiated by the competent authorities, the complainant may approach the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and the Bombay High Court seeking further legal remedies.
Sprouts News understands that the allegations contained in the complaint are currently claims made by the complainant and remain subject to verification by the relevant authorities. Any findings regarding liability or wrongdoing will depend on the outcome of official investigations and legal proceedings.
Readers’ Appeal
If you have any information, documents, photographs, videos, or evidence related to this matter, please contact Unmesh Gujarathi, Investigative Journalist, Sprouts News Special Investigation Team (SIT), at 9322755098. Confidentiality of genuine sources will be maintained.
Editorial Note:
This article is based on publicly available FIR records, court case references, and reports published by multiple media organisations. The information is presented in the context of ongoing investigations and public interest reporting. Sprouts News does not make any judicial determination regarding the individuals mentioned and does not intend to defame any person or organisation. Any individual seeking clarification or wishing to provide an official response may contact the editorial team with verifiable documentation. The information is presented for journalistic and informational purposes.
