Kolkata, June 7: A significant controversy has emerged regarding West Bengal‘s liquor policy during an event held in Rajarhat. The gathering featured Bijan Patra, secretary of the liquor traders’ organization, along with BJP MPs Jyotirmoy Singh Mahato and Soumitra Khan, who raised several concerns about the state’s excise system and issues related to the liquor business. The speakers accused the government of irregularities in the liquor policy, low profit margins, additional fees, and illegal collections.
Bijan Patra stated that the profit margin for liquor vendors in the state is alarmingly low. He claimed that shopkeepers receive only a 2 to 3 percent margin, which diminishes further due to various fees and deductions. He urged the government to ensure a minimum 10 percent margin on the maximum retail price (MRP) to help small shopkeepers sustain their businesses.
Patra highlighted that many small shopkeepers are under significant financial pressure. In numerous cases, the actual owners of the shops are unable to run their businesses, allowing others to exploit their situation. He called on the government to increase the dividends for shopkeepers so that small business owners can lead a respectable life.
He also alleged a lack of transparency regarding various schemes and incentive payments in the liquor business. According to Patra, traders are informed that the incentives they are supposed to receive are diverted elsewhere. However, he admitted that he does not possess direct information or evidence regarding this matter.
Questions were also raised about the ‘Special Purpose Fee’ during the event. Patra mentioned that some fees imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic are still in effect, placing an additional financial burden on shopkeepers. He asserted that these fees directly impact their profits.
Meanwhile, BJP MP Jyotirmoy Singh Mahato accused the state of rampant counterfeit liquor trade in several districts. He claimed that millions of adulterated bottles are sold in the market each month. He demanded a fair investigation into the matter, suggesting that a probe could reveal several prominent names involved.
During the discussion, Mahato also responded to the state’s inspection campaign of madrasas. He emphasized that all educational institutions must adhere to government guidelines and operate according to established rules and curricula.
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