A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) minister comments that Chief Minister Mohan Majhi’s government is actively pursuing causing the state without liquor have sparked speculation about a possible alcohol ban in Odisha.
On the occasion of the World Day Against Drug Abuse, Nityananda Gond, Odisha Minister for Welfare and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, emphasized the negative impact of dependency on alcohol on society. He emphasized the government worries about the economic and social effects of alcohol consumption, as well as intentions to reduce its use as well as prevent narcotics.
Gond referred to the Orissa Prohibition Act of 1956, which, despite receiving presidential assent, has not been enforced. The Act aims to prohibit the manufacture, sale, and consumption of liquor and drugs throughout Odisha. Legal challenges have hindered previous attempts to implement the Act, with the state government hesitating to enforce it.
In reply to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) submitted in 2013 regarding the enforcement of the Orissa prohibition Act, the Odisha High Court raised concerns about the potential adverse effects of a blanket booze ban. It warned that such measures might result in an increase in illicit liquor sales and the use of illicit drugs.
Despite these difficulties, Gond reaffirmed the nation’s dedication to addressing alcoholism and reducing drug use via gradual execution and consultation with the appropriate departments.
As debates about liquor ban continue in Odisha, stakeholders and citizens eagerly await new developments on this important public health and social issue.