PANJIM: Chief Minister
Manohar Parrikar is optimistic to resolve the much-debated order of the Supreme
Court (SC) banning sale of liquor on the highways. For this, he has convened a
meeting of a huge team concerned with the issue after the vote of confidence on
Thursday.
“I always attempt to find a
solution to any issues. I believe there is a solution for every issue possibly
within the framework of the law and the SC order. On the liquor ban order, I
have convened a meeting of all the concerned officials, legal authorities and
others after the vote of confidence,” he told media persons on the sidelines of
the swearing-in of Panjim MLA Siddhart Kunkalienkar as the Protem Speaker on
Wednesday.
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The country is heading
towards banning sale of alcohol within 500 mtrs of the National and State
highways in view of SC order asking the State governments to stop renewing the
licenses (coming under its ambit) with effect from April 1, 2017. Parrikar, who
also held Excise portfolio before his elevation to the Centre in November 2014,
commented, “Nothing is last. We are looking into the aspect of it.” And decide…”
The liquor traders have high
hopes that the CM will resolve the issue particularly because it concerns livelihood
of several thousand locals. The Goa Highway Affected Liquor Association has already
announced that the new State government either challenges the order or files a
review plea. Speaking to Herald soon after the new government was sworn-in; the
association convener Gaurish Dhond had expressed confidence in Parrikar to
salvage the situation.
If the order is enforced, it will come as a double whammy for
the State. While the liquor outlets will have to struggle to eke out living,
the State Excise department will also witness a slump in the revenue
collection. The department has already completed its survey identifying the
total number of retail and wholesale liquor licenses, and bars located on the
highways.
