Himachal Pradesh Government Faces Criticism Over Liquor Shop Management
Political Backlash Over New Excise Policy
The Himachal Pradesh government's recent excise policy, which aims to generate ₹2,800 crore in revenue, has sparked significant political and public backlash. This criticism arose after the state had to take control of liquor shops that failed to attract private bidders.
Over 200 liquor outlets did not receive any bids, prompting the government to assign their management to local municipal bodies, particularly in Shimla, leading to a political uproar.
In Shimla, 19 liquor stores are now directly managed by the Municipal Corporation, which has deployed over 20 civic employees, 18 Home Guards, and seven inspectors to oversee the sales.
This shift in personnel has left municipal offices, especially the Tax and Estate departments, nearly empty, raising concerns about administrative focus.
Opposition leaders have reacted strongly, with BJP MLA Sudhir Sharma criticizing the government on social media. He mockingly referred to the initiative as the 'Sukh-Sharab Yojana – Piyo, Pilao Aur Jhumo' (drink, serve, and dance), suggesting police will ensure safe returns home.
Sharma's comments ignited a wave of online backlash, with citizens accusing the government of misaligning its governance priorities. Many users remarked, 'This is what they meant by ‘Vyavastha Parivartan’ (systemic change).'
Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur also joined the debate, sharing articles and questioning the ethics and transparency of the new policy. He alleged that the liquor shop auctions were manipulated and that the policy was riddled with irregularities.
In defense, the government claims that the policy has resulted in a 40% increase in state revenue compared to the previous year. However, critics argue that this financial success comes at the expense of vital civic services and undermines institutional efficiency.
As scrutiny intensifies and political tensions escalate, the Congress government led by Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is grappling with the perception that it is turning government employees into liquor vendors—a move many consider a troubling blend of fiscal policy and administrative folly.