Twitterati opposed to opening of liquor shops

No decision yet, seeking views, says UT Adviser Parida

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Dushyant Singh Pundir

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, April 7

UT Adviser Manoj Parida today took to micro-blogging siteTwitter to seek suggestions on opening of liquor shops for a limited period during the lockdown in the city.

“One doctor has suggested allowing two-hour opening of liquor shops lest the addicts go for drugs or depression. Your views group?” tweeted Parida.

However, a majority of the Twitter users opposed the idea of opening liquor shops, whereas some appreciated the decision as it would put an end to black marketeering of liquor during the lockdown. Instead, some suggested that the Administration should start home delivery in order to curtail overcrowding at liquor shops.

“Respected sir, if you open wine shops for two hours, the movement of people will increase in large number. Also, people from Mohali, Zirakpur and Panchkula may get attracted to come to Chandigarh; the chances of the spread of Covid-19 will be high. In my opinion, these should not be opened now,” said Sandeep Kumar.

Some felt that with the opening of liquor shops, addicts would ask for opening of tobacco, cigarette and pan masala shops as well.

Rai, another one active on Twitter, said, “I say NO. Full Disclosure: I make profits from selling licensed liquor in Chandigarh. #SocialDistancing #Hygiene will go for a toss. We can’t afford to burden #Police & #families #children that have alcohol addicts in their households. We’re in middle of #COVID19 war. Please.”

“I don’t agree with this. People will sit together and drink. They won’t follow isolation. I deal with alcoholics at the PGI. If they feel craving that’s a bad sign, they must be treated in drug de-addiction centres. Alcohol is not a drug, it’s a toxin (slow poison),” said Dr Babu Lal Meena.

Appreciating the suggestion, Manmohan Sarin said, “In my opinion, sound advice. Prohibition has never proved to be a success in the world. The prime objective here is the lockdown, which is being effectively enforced. Beer and wine is sold through grocery stores, which are open for four hours. The state will get revenue also.”

“I think we should agree with doctors during pandemic situations,” said Mohit Verma.

“Sir, you should also think about them, otherwise they will go mad due to the break of intoxication, not from Corona,” tweeted Umesh Kumar.

“Sir, then what about regular joggers, walkers, other business/services which are not essential, maids; they are also sitting at home for the safety of all. It will be the opening of a Pandora’s box and injustice to the fair ones,” asked Shewali Gupta.

“May open it. But a prescription is required from treating physician, if possible the consultant psychiatrist, who is treating the alchohol withdrawal syndrome,” said Dr Arnab Pal.

In the end, Parida said, “No decision yet..Seeking views.”