In the wake of the Tamil Nadu Government’s decision to shut down 500 liquor shops, the State’s Minister for Prohibition and Excise, S Muthusamy, has proposed a unique approach to address environmental concerns. He suggested selling liquor in tetra packs, citing benefits in terms of cleanliness and environmental preservation. While the idea has already been implemented in neighbouring Karnataka and Puducherry, it has faced stern opposition, with concerns raised about potential misuse and underage consumption.
Tetra Packs as an Environmental Solution
Minister S Muthusamy highlights the advantages of introducing liquor in tetra packs, aiming to minimise the environmental impact caused by broken and discarded glass bottles. The move comes as part of the Government’s efforts to tackle the issue of empty liquor bottles littering farmlands and roadsides.
Subheading 2: A Comprehensive Evaluation
Acknowledging the controversial nature of the proposal, the Government has set up an official team to thoroughly study the feasibility of implementing liquor sales in tetra packs. The decision is still in the early stages and will be executed only after a comprehensive evaluation.
Opposition from Anbumani Ramadoss
Former Union minister Anbumani Ramadoss, the president of PMK, voices strong opposition to the idea. He raises concerns about potential confusion among minors and students, who might mistake liquor tetra packs for other beverages packaged similarly. Ramadoss warns that this could lead to misuse and underage consumption.
Disappointment in Political Leadership
Ramadoss expresses disappointment in Minister Muthusamy’s proposal, considering him a seasoned politician who should lead the state towards prohibition instead. He deems the reasoning behind the idea as “absurd” and argues against the notion that tetra packs can be a solution to liquor adulteration.
A Controversial Debate Unfolds
As Tamil Nadu explores the possibility of selling liquor in tetra packs, the proposal faces heated opposition from Anbumani Ramadoss and others. While the Government emphasises environmental and cleanliness benefits, concerns about potential misuse and underage access persist. The contentious decision remains under scrutiny as stakeholders engage in a charged debate over its potential implications on the State’s liquor industry and public welfare.
