Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (SP)

Bengaluru, No 9: Although there had been mention on certain occasions about possibility of enforcing liquor ban in Karnataka because of its adverse affect on health, family life and quality of life, the proposal had not gained enough attention to start a public debate. But now there are indications that the government is positively considering this proposal seriously.

Speaking to media persons at Bagalkot on Wednesday November 8, state excise minister, R B Thimmapur, informed that a delegation from the state has been deputed to Bihar to study the liquor ban enforced in that state. He said that the delegation will study the modus operandi and ground reality connected with liquor ban there and then submit a report directly to the chief minister about its findings.

"A delegation comprising 15 to 20 members has been dispatched to Bihar to take stock of the liquor ban enforced there and the law passed in that context. The delegation will also study the economic and social changes brought about in Bihar after liquor ban was affected. I do not have many details about this exercise," the minister said.

There has been persistent demand for bringing about liquor ban as consumption of liquor has been known to create financial crisis, spoiling of family relationships and addicts taking to crime to finance their addiction. The government might eye to the women's vote bank by undertaking this measure as womenfolk are the worst affected class of the society that has been hearing the brunt of liquor consumption by men. One calculation that this measure may bring votes for the ruling party.

Considering that financial impact on the government will be very huge, and also that liquor ban might also earn the wrath of large number of males, apart from the likelihood of locally brewed hooch taking over the place of liquor and spoiling the health of people, it has to be seen how will the government go about its plan to place ban on liquor in Karnataka. There are reports that Bihar has been facing financial down-slide on account of liquor ban and it has to be seen whether Karnataka will take this risk and lose a major source of government revenue.