The move reflects a nuanced understanding of the challenges posed by the ban and a commitment to addressing them in a more pragmatic manner.
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Manipur, the Indian state that has steadfastly remained ‘dry’ since 1991, has recently witnessed a significant turnaround in its alcohol policy. The state’s cabinet has made the monumental decision to legalize the sale and consumption of liquor. To subscribe please click tau.id/2iy6f and access our live channel.
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This policy change emerges as a strategic response to the ongoing ethnic conflicts within the state and a resolute campaign against drug and alcohol abuse, which has been intrinsically linked to the ethnic tension.
The primary objective is to bolster the economy. The state government expects a substantial boost in its annual revenue post-liquor legalization, with projections estimating around Rs 600-700 crore. Secondly, this measure is a preventative maneuver against the health hazards caused by spurious alcohol.
In 1991, Manipur became a dry state, responding to public demand, particularly from women’s groups. These groups were deeply concerned about the social and domestic issues stemming from alcohol consumption.
However, the prohibition permitted the scheduled caste and scheduled tribe communities to brew liquor under their traditional system and customary laws. This partial lifting of prohibition last year allowed the sale and consumption of liquor at district headquarters and hotels, paving the way for full legalization this year.
Last year the Manipur government issued a public notice which mentioned that opinion and views on the state government’s decision for lifting the prohibition from the state of Manipur are invited from all Civil Society organisations, NGOs and individuals.
In October last year Manipur Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh said that the government will come up with a white paper on liquor legalisation in the state. The state cabinet had earlier decided to partially lift the three-decade old prohibition on liquor consumption.
With the Manipur government deciding to legalise liquor in the state, the state government has allowed district headquarters, greater Imphal areas, tourist locations and registered hotel establishments with not less than 20 lodging rooms for the sale and distribution of alcohol beverage.
