Is Ban On Beverage Justified?

Some Maoist-affiliated groups are making much hype to ban the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages in the country. Given the rampant sale and use of such alcoholic drinks in Nepal, it seems to be a good move. However, the orgnisers have failed to realise the adverse effects the move will have on the national economy. Though everyone knows who the anti-alcohol drive is targeted against the bar owners will have to bear the loss. The manufacturers too have much at stake when their investment is thought to be to the tune of billions of rupees. And the government may be deprived of about 7 or 8 billion rupees in revenue.

Ramesh Paudel
Panauti, Kavre