When YS Jagan Mohan Reddy became the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, he said that he plans on prohibiting the consumption of alcohol completely in the state, by 2024, in a phased manner. He did act on his plan, by reducing the number of liquor shops in the state, increasing the taxes on liquor, and by making branded liquor unavailable in the state.
Jagan’s policy, while doing nothing good for the state, only made things worse, as all those addicted to liquor, looked to other states for branded liquor. This increased the revenue for other states like Karnataka, Orissa, Telangana and Tamil Nadu. The revenue generated from liquor sales in AP, on the occasion of New Year, is evident enough that those who are used to liquor will let go of it.
Analysts are saying that it is better for Jagan to go back on his policy, as he would lose nothing if he did so. Jagan has already reduced liquor prices and made branded liquor available in the state. Given that the only repercussions that Jagan faced when he took a back step with regards to the 3 capital policy, and the abolishing of the legislative council, was the remarks made by opposing parties, sources close to Jagan are also of the opinion that it is better for the CM to go back on his policy. It is now to be seen what will happen.
