Why can’t govt reconsider ban on toddy tapping: Madras High Court

Chennai: The Madras high court has asked the state government if it can reconsider the ban imposed on toddy extracting keeping in view the health benefits of consuming toddy, as stated in a petition, and in view of the allegations against the sale of liquor through Tasmac shops. The first bench of Acting Chief Justice D Krishnakumar and Justice K Kumaresh Babu raised the question when a PIL filed by activist S Muraleedharan, seeking a direction to lift the ban on toddy extracting and allow the sale of liquor through supermarkets, came up for hearing. The court referred to the petitioner’s submission that beneficial bacteria in fresh toddy would aid digestion and gut health, and it contains antioxidants that potentially help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote skin health. “Why do you not consider the petitioner’s representation (for lifting the ban on toddy extracting) in the interest of the poor and Dalits who cannot afford to buy (IMFL) liquor,” it asked. The bench, however, made it clear that it is entirely the government’s job to decide on the matter as it is a policy matter. Referring to the allegations levelled by the petitioner that irregularities have been committed in the sale of liquor at Tasmac retail outlets where liquor is sold at more than the MRP, the bench said the state should reconsider the ban on toddy. Asking state government counsel A Edwin Prabhakar to seek instructions on the matter, the bench adjourned the hearing till July 29. Muraleedharan had said liquor can be made available in all supermarkets, giving them the freedom to buy liquor from any brewery or distillery across the country. He also sought lifting of the ban on selling cheap liquor and dispensing toddy through fair price shops.