Nov 17, 2011

It is highly distressing to read  that liquor revenue  for  Tamil Nadu  government through Tasmac has registered record sale of Rs.1924 crores in October,2011.  It is even more disturbing to know that the growth of liquor sale month wise has been in the region of around 20% on an average in the recent past in Tamil Nadu.   These are all signs of bad times to come.

Even while one feels so much concerned about such conditions, it is tragic that Tamil Nadu government has decided to introduce elite Tasmac clubs, obviously with the intention of boosting the liquor sale further.  Tamil Nadu government is glorifying liquor habit in the state and appears to be highly elated about its business income through Tasmac sale.

Even as the Tamil Nadu government appears to be  rejoicing over its “liquor achievements”, the economy and health of thousands of poor families in the state are getting uprooted.  Thousands of women in the lower income group suffer virtual torture in the hands of their drunken men day in and day out.   School and college students are increasingly becoming victims of liquor habit . One hears that this evil practice is spreading amongst women too.

How is it that Tamil Nadu government not concerned about such scenario?  A welfare government cannot be a party to such conditions. 

I am not appealing to the government of Tamil Nadu to withdraw the proposed elite club idea, since I am sure that it will not listen to such voice, as it cannot be unaware of the harmful effects to the fibre and fabric of the society, due to  rapid spreading liquor habit .

I only appeal to the fellow citizens not to fall prey to this counter productive and harmful habit,  inspite of all the temptations that the Tasmac and  its elite club provide. 

Mahatma Gandhi said that the means should justify the ends.  If the Tamil Nadu government would want to multiply its income, this should not be the way even if such income would be used for any welfare measures.  What can helpless and concerned citizens do ?