Madhya Pradesh Bans Alcohol at 17 Sacred Locations; CM Promises Revenue Alternatives
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Synopsis
The Madhya Pradesh government, led by CM Mohan Yadav, has enacted a ban on liquor sales at 17 religious sites across the state. The decision, made during a special cabinet meeting, aims to uphold public interest and religious sentiments, while the government seeks alternative revenue sources to offset the expected loss.
Key Takeaways
- Liquor ban at 17 religious sites
- Effective from April 1
- Loss of Rs 450 crore in revenue
- Government to use alternative resources
- Political implications within BJP
Bhopal, Jan 24 (NationPress) The Chief Minister Mohan Yadav-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Madhya Pradesh declared on Friday a prohibition on the sale and consumption of liquor at 17 significant religious locations.
These religious sites, where the liquor ban will be enforced, are situated across various districts, including Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain, Orchha (Raja Ram Temple), Amarkantak (along the Narmada River), Chitrakoot in Satna district, among others.
This decision was made during a special cabinet meeting convened in Maheshwar in the Khargone district, commemorating the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar, an 18th-century ruler of the Holkar dynasty. Maheshwar was once the capital of this dynasty.
The Madhya Pradesh government stated on Friday, "During a special cabinet meeting held in Maheshwar, presided over by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, it was resolved to impose a liquor ban at various religious locations throughout the state."
This new liquor policy will be effective starting April 1. With this partial prohibition, Madhya Pradesh will align itself with the dry states such as Gujarat, Bihar, Nagaland, and Mizoram, in addition to the Union Territory of Lakshadweep. As a result, approximately 50 liquor shops located at these religious sites will be permanently closed, leading to an estimated loss of excise revenue up to Rs 450 crore.
The excise revenue forecast for the financial year 2024-25 stands at Rs 15,000 crore. Addressing the anticipated revenue shortfall due to the liquor ban, Chief Minister Yadav expressed confidence that the government possesses various alternative revenue sources to make up for the loss.
"When it comes to public interest and religious sentiments, such decisions hold greater significance. The government has various other revenue avenues and I am assured that the loss will be covered," Yadav informed IANS.
It is noteworthy that the prohibition of liquor has been a contentious political issue within the Madhya Pradesh BJP. Prominent saffron leaders, including former CM Uma Bharti, have frequently criticized their own party's government for hesitating to enforce a liquor ban. Last year, Bharti even protested by throwing stones at liquor shops in Bhopal and opposing liquor outlets near schools and places of worship.
Additionally, former Bhopal MP Pragya Thakur has also voiced her disapproval of liquor sales in the state.
