Karnataka liquor ban: Kumaraswamy seeks time to review matter

Bengaluru: Reacting to demands of thousands of women and activists who began their march on January 19 from Chitradurga, seeking a total ban on alcohol in the state, chief minister Kumaraswamy said that he needs more time to review the matter. A delegation in the leadership of veteran theatre personality Prasanna met Kumaraswamy and put forth their demand. In his reply, Kumaraswamy reminded the delegation that he had banned lottery and liquor in the state when he was the chief minister in 2006. But he also said that this was a coalition government and he needs to discuss the matter with the Congress. Kumaraswamy also explained that after the implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST), the revenue collection for the state has become limited. Thus, decision cannot be taken in a haste but the pros and cons of the same have to be reviewed and discussed with the Congress, he said.