Assam Opposition Leader Condemns Liquor Sales Targets, Citing Public Health Concerns

Debabrata Saikia, the Leader of Opposition in the Assam Legislative Assembly, voiced his astonishment at the state Excise Department’s directive to increase liquor sales to boost revenue. Saikia criticized the move, urging the department to revoke its order and emphasizing the potential negative impact on public health. He highlighted Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s focus on other legislative priorities over concerns regarding alcohol’s adverse effects, calling attention to the rise in crimes against women linked to alcohol consumption. Saikia also criticized the state government’s Prohibition Council for what he perceives as insufficient action.