The nationwide lockdown has affected everyone in the country in several ways. Amid the lockdown, all shops barring the ones providing essentials have been ordered to remain closed. As a result, the individuals craving for alcohol are left restless.
Taking their issue to Maharashtra Chief Minister, the Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC) has written to CM Uddhav Thackeray, recommending that wine shops and distilleries be opened in a phased manner.
As per a report by CNBC-TV18, the CIABC raised concerns about the rise of spurious liquor sales in the state and said that taxes on alcoholic beverages is one of the most vital revenue sources for all state governments.
There have been instances where people have been using WhatsApp groups to sell alcohol at a premium to the ones that are willing to pay a hefty price during the lockdown.
On April 4, Vashi Police had raided a restaurant and bar in Navi Mumbai for selling liquor illegally. The police managed to seize alcohol worth ₹1.31 lakh which was being sold illegally.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra is not the only place where people have been craving for a drink. There have been reports of suicide cases from various parts of Kerala after liquor sales were stopped in that state. After which, CM Pinarayi Vijayan had directed the Excise Department to provide liquor to those with a prescription from doctors.
Other than that, West Bengal's excise department had, on last Wednesday, permitted home delivery of liquor amid the coronavirus lockdown. The facility was made available from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm from stores, restaurants and bars with valid permits. However, the department later revoked the order.
Meanwhile, in case the Maharashtra government approves the CIABC request, it would not only put an end to the illegal sale of alcohol but also bring down the sale of spurious liquor.
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