'State has to change excise policy'

He was speaking during the protest rally staged by the CPI workers opposing the incessant sale of illicit liquor in Marasanige on Sunday. Addressing the protesters, he said the Excise policy of the State government which permits every individual to possess 24 quarter liquor for personal use has been misused. The sale of illicit liquor in few houses and grocery shops is moving on in full swing in Kalasa hobli. The authorities concerned are in deep slumber and are not taking any action against the culprits, he alleged.

He said few of the elected representatives and the followers of the political leaders are involved in the illicit liquor transaction without any fear. The sale has affected the lives of the poor as the daily wage labourers in the rural area are persuaded to buy the liquor at the cost of few penny they earn everyday. Owing to the liquor menace, the families are suffering from financial difficulties. By considering the ill effects, the State government has to amend the Excise policy so that illicit liquor sale is controlled, he urged.

The protest received a very good response from the women, as it was mostly the women from self help groups, women empowerment associations and Pragati Bandhu organisations who took part in the protest. When the protesters blocked the road near Marasanige bus stop, the Excise Inspector visited the place and asked the protesters to bring such illegal activities into his notice. The department would take action against the culprits, he assured.