The Andhra Pradesh government has ordered excise officials to close down all belt (illicit arrack) shops.
Arrack is a specially distilled alcoholic beverage, which is made by fermenting the sap of coconut flowers, sugarcane, grains (like red rice, or brown rice) or even some fruits.
It has already been banned in some states in India. For example, it was banned in Kerala in the year 1996.
Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy has taken a tough stand on belt shops, and has instructed the excise office to immediately initiate action in closing them down.
He has also instructed officials to submit a report on the closure of belt shops within a month.
The Opposition has consistently attacked the government on its weak stand on arrack shops. Also, women's organizations have been demanding the removal of belt shops for a long time now.
This order comes close on the heels of an earlier one, wherein the government had instructed all bar owners to stop giving free alcohol to women during their "ladies night" events. (INN)
filed in:N Kiran Kumar Reddy, Liquor Licenses, Alcohol/Liquor, Belt Shops