Guwahati, 15th November: In a follow-up to his comparison of fuel prices, Assam Minister Pijush Hazarika has now turned his attention to the cost of alcohol, highlighting a significant difference between Assam and Karnataka. Taking to platform X, Hazarika emphasized the harmful effects of alcohol on health but pointed out that Assam charges considerably less in taxes compared to Congress-led Karnataka.
“Alcohol consumption’s harmful effects on health are indisputable. However, amidst ongoing discussions regarding revenue generation for state governments through liquor, here is an enlightening piece of information,” the minister stated. He revealed that Karnataka imposes three times more taxes on alcohol than Assam, resulting in a substantial price gap. A 750 ML alcohol bottle costs Rs. 835 in Assam, while the same quantity in Karnataka is priced at a staggering Rs. 2,155.
Hazarika reiterated the health risks associated with alcohol but emphasized the adverse impact of imposing exorbitant taxes in Congress-controlled states. He expressed the Assam government’s opposition to such practices and its commitment to minimizing taxation while focusing on maximum development.
“Again, it must be emphasized that alcohol poses health risks. Nevertheless, capitalizing on its consumption by levying exorbitant taxes in Congress-controlled states is even more harmful. The Government of Assam firmly opposes such practices and pledges to minimize taxation while striving for maximum development. We will continue to voice our criticisms, with the ultimate goal of providing relief and benefiting all segments of society,” added Hazarika.
In a related development, Hazarika shared receipts from a petrol station in Kerala’s Thalassery, highlighting the disparity in petrol prices. He pointed out that while petrol costs Rs 98 per liter in Assam, in CPI(M) ruled Kerala, petrol prices are at Rs 108 per liter.
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