Kerala HC stays govt order on special passes for tipplers to buy liquor

Kerala High Court on Thursday stayed a state government decision to issue special passes to tipplers, who have withdrawal symptoms and doctor's prescription to purchase liquor from Excise department.

Staying order for three weeks, a bench of Justices A K Jayasankaran Nambiar and Shaji P Chaly granted a week's time to government to file its response.

Court stayed government decision on a batch of pleas including one by Kerala Government Medical Officers Association (KGMOA) challenging it.

government h issued order early this week, despite objection from doctors' association, to supply liquor to tipplers under prescription during 21-day lockdown initiated to counter spre of vel coronavirus.

In its order, government said following lockdown and closure of liquor outlets in state, re were instances of social issues including frustration and suicidal tendencies shown by those who consumed liquor regularly and hence a decision was taken to initiate steps to resolve matter.

order also said that those who have physical and mental issues due to withdrawal symptoms could be provided liquor in a "controlled" and "prescribed" manner. Considering pleas, Court asked government wher it could prove withdrawal symptoms can be treated by ministration of alcohol.

It observed that re was scientific base for decision.