Congress flays Gujarat Govt over new liquor shop schedule

VADODARA: Opposition Congress today criticised the Gujarat government for its decision to change trading hours of permitted liquor shops in the state.

As per the revised schedule, which came into effect from November 6, these shops will operate between 10.30am to 6.10pm instead of the earlier noon to 8pm.

Though the sale and consumption of liquor has been prohibited in Gujarat, the State Government issues permits to some individuals for its consumption on medical grounds.

Shankersinh Vaghela, Leader of Opposition in Gujarat Assembly, alleged the move reflected existence of a nexus between bootleggers and the BJP Government.

"A nexus between bootleggers and Gujarat Government is responsible for the revision in schedule for liquor shops in the state," he said.

The Government has said it has made the changes after an oral representation by some women employees of the Prohibition Department, who are posted in these outlets as part of their duty.

Rejecting this argument, Vaghela sought to know why female employees are posted at these liquor shops.

"Why should women employees be posted in such liquor shops if they find it inconvenient. Instead, they should be posted in the offices of Prohibition Department located across the State.

"There are women employees in police department, forest department, Government-run hospitals, where they perform their duties during night hours. Malls and private companies also employee women who work at odd hours," he said.

Illegal selling of liquor is taking place across the state due to failure of the Gujarat government to strictly implement its prohibition policy, the former CM alleged.

The new schedule will benefit bootleggers and their business will thrive. Tourists and other visitors to the state will buy liquor from bootleggers after these shops close down at 6.10pm, Vaghela added.