Can't put complete ban; will try to curb liquor trade: Odisha government

BHUBANESWAR: Expressing inability to put a ban on country liquor in tribal-dominated districts as the Biju Patnaik-regime had done in early 90s, Odisha government today instead pledged to curb liquor trade in state.

"We do not dare to ban the country liquor in the state now even though I am personally against spread of hooch trade," Odisha's Excise and Cooperation Minister Damodar Rout told the Assembly while replying to a debate on alleged unchecked liquor trade and ganja cultivation.

Rout, who was a minister in the Janata Dal government headed by Biju Patnaik from 1990-1995, recalled how the then chief minister sacrificed excise revenue generated from country liquor.

"Biju Babu put a ban on the country liquor in tribal areas after a group of women prevailed on him to do so," he said.

Stating that key to development of tribal population lies in total prohibition in their areas, the Excise minister said: "Pouring money in tribal areas for development has no meaning unless there is total prohibition in the areas."

Rout said as many as 266 liquor shops have been closed and steps are being taken to ensure that there is no liquor outlet close to the National Highways.

"I am informed that there are some (about 2100) liquor shops near schools and temples. I am taking steps to shift them," the minister said.