Madhya Pradesh new liquor policy: Ahatas, shop bars to be shut; strict action against violators

MP new liquor policy: The Bharatiya Janata Party government in Madhya Pradesh (MP) government has banned the consumption of liquor at ahatas or areas for drinking attached to liquor outlets and shop bars in the state. The decision is a part of the new Madhya Pradesh liquor policy which was announced by the BJP government of the landlocked state on Sunday.

The Cabinet headed by Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan approved the policy amid a severe criticism from firebrand BJP leader Uma Bharti who was demanding a 'controlled liquor policy' in the state.

"The Cabinet has approved a proposal to close all (open-air) bars operating in the state. Now, liquor can only be bought and sold over the counter at liquor shops," Home Minister Narottam Mishra told reporters after the Cabinet meeting on Sunday evening.

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The decision is aimed at discouraging the consumption of alcohol.

"Since 2010, no new liquor shop has been closed in the state. We have introduced a new liquor policy this year to discourage people from consuming alcohol," he added.

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Mishra also said that the Cabinet has also decided to go for stricter enforcement of rules to suspend the driving licences of those accused of drink-driving.

The minimum distance of liquor shops from educational and religious places has also been increased from 50 to 100 metres.

A total of 64 shops were closed during the Narmada Seva Yatra in the state, Mishra informed.

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