Bhopal: The state government is in dilemma over taking decision on new excise policy. The government is in doubt whether to come up with the policy before the enforcement of code of conduct for Lok Sabha polls, or decide on it after the completion of the elections.
Sources said mulling over renewing contracts of liquor for three months is going on. The new excise policy would be launched after Lok Sabha elections. The renewal of liquor contracts can be done by taking 10% more of the contract amount for three months.
The proposal of new excise policy would be put up in cabinet meeting. The government intends to make wide changes in excise policy this time. Permissions to open bars, ‘Ahaatas’, changing country-made liquor shops to foreign liquor shops and start sub-shops of liquor may also be given.
Former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan during his tenure had banned opening new liquor shops. The liquor shops within the radius of 5 kilometres of river Narmada were also prohibited. The current government has to review all such provisions in the new policy. The inclusion of these new provisions in the excise policy may create ripples during Lok Sabha elections. Considering all these aspects, the government is considered to bring new policy after LS elections.
Congress was for ban on liquor before Assembly polls
Former state Congress president Arun Yadav, prior to Congress coming to power in the state, was demanding ban on liquor. Yadav had announced launching a movement on ban on liquor in the state. Congress had attacked the BJP government over promoting liquor in the state. Woman Congress had also launched a campaign in support of ban on liquor. After forming government in the state, Congress is now puzzled on what to do on the issue.