PMK President Anbumani Ramadoss has urged the state government to drop its proposal to sell liquor in 90ml tetra packs in Tasmac wine shops, arguing that such a move will not curb the menace of hooch but rather harm Tamil Nadu’s youth and society.
Anbumani called on the state government to engage in discussions with political parties on effective ways to tackle the hooch problem. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts in addressing this issue, which has significant social and health implications.
“The government claims that tipplers prefer inexpensive hooch over Tasmac liquor as the minimum price of liquor bottles available is Rs. 140. Tasmac tried to introduce 90ml tetra packs last year. After opposition from PMK, the proposal was dropped. Tasmac reasoned the proposal by saying that the tetra packs will prevent injuries to wildlife by broken bottles,” he said in a statement.
He alleged that the government is trying to reintroduce the 90ml tetra packs despite opposition. He warned that such a move would be detrimental to Tamil Nadu and its youth. “The World Health Organization recommends against the sale of any items that are harmful to health in smaller quantities or at a lower cost. Prices of liquor should be kept high. Kalaignar (M Karunanidhi) was blamed for introducing liquor in Tamil Nadu in 1972. If MK Stalin introduces tetra packs, he will also carry a similar blame,” he added.
Anbumani Ramadoss criticized the government for taking contradictory stances on prohibition. “An amendment has been made in the Prohibition Act to prevent hooch. On the other hand, it proposes to introduce tetra packs. If the government has any intention to curb hooch, it should discuss with parties including PMK. We are ready to provide suggestions,” he said.