Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (SP) 

Bengaluru, Sep 5: Excise minister, H Nagesh, said that a proposal to issue identity cards to people addicted to liquor and supplying liquor at their doorsteps is under consideration. He clarified that this is being done to avoid drunken driving and bring down accidents arising out of it. 

Nagesh was speaking at a press meet after holding meeting with officials of his department on Wednesday. He said that the identity cards would be provided through the deputy commissioner of the district and that good quality liquor would be delivered by the excise department. 

The minister said that a decision about what documents people need to submit to get the said identity cards is yet to be taken. He said a decision would be arrived at after discussing the matter with officials and the general public. He added that there is no proposal to prescribe Aadhaar card as a mandatory requirement for issuing the cards. The minister also clarified that the department is not considering the proposal to   transport drunken people lying in public places to their homes and also extend protection to their families, as is being made out in certain media and websites. He said that such measures would encourage the drunkards. 

"We have asked excise officials to take steps against illicit liquor brewing units. The officials will be held responsible if illegal liquor is found to be sold in their areas. As we are aware that people living in Tandas are consuming substandard liquor and spoiling their health, we propose to introduce mobile shops to sell good quality liquor to them. There is proposal to open 1,800 outlets of Mysore Sales International Ltd," he explained. 

Nagesh acknowledged that 43 percent of the posts in his department are remaining vacant and the process of appointing superintendents, excise sub-inspectors, excise inspectors and drivers is under way. He felt that placing total ban on liquor consumption is impossible and currently there is no proposal to issue new licences.