A DRY SPELL

Many states have flirted with the idea of prohibition, but with mixed results

1949

The Bombay Prohibition Act is introduced. Still in force in Maharashtra though the state licensing regime is quite liberal 1960 A sumptuary law is introduced in Gujarat when it is carved out of Bombay state that proscribes alcohol. But now a massive illicit liquor racket flourishes 1971

Tamil Nadu CM M. Karunanidhi repeals the prohibition in vogue since 1952 but then re–imposes it in 1974, only for M.G. Ramachandran’s AIADMK regime to scrap it in 1981 1977

Bihar announces prohibition but fails; it is withdrawn in just a year 1989

Nagaland introduces total prohibition with restricted permits. But ban hasn’t been a ‘success’ and illegal bars and shops continue to operate in the state 1991 The Manipur People’s Party government enforces prohibition in Manipur. Lifted partially in the five hill districts in 2002. Scrapped in 2015 by the Congress government 1994

N.T. Rama Rao declares prohibition in Andhra Pradesh. Three years on, N. Chandrababu Naidu, his soninlaw and now CM, repeals it 1995 Mizoram bans sale, consumption of alcohol. Amends law to allow wine made from guavas and grapes in 2007. Scraps prohibition in 2014 despite mass protests by the church

1996

Haryana imposes total prohibition after the Bansi Lalled coalition rides to power on the slogan. But the same government scraps it in 1998 2014

Kerala’s UDF government advocates prohibition, closes bars, restricts sale of alcohol to fivestar hotels. Rules relaxed by the current Left Front government 2016

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar imposes complete prohibition. Draconian law allows for huge penalties; thousands now in jail 2017

SC orders all liquor vends within 500 metres of highways shut, citing its role in drunk driving accidents. Revises order later to exclude stretches in towns/ cities