The Karnataka State Government received flak from the citizens, especially the parents for proposing the idea of reducing the legal age to buy liquor. The government was contemplating bringing down the legal age to buy alcoholic drinks to 18, however given the backlash, they have decided to stay with the current age standard of 21.
The government of Karnataka published a draft notification to reduce the base age for allowing the sale of booze from 21 to 18. When open for public feedback, the government noticed mostly negative reviews from academicians and parents which made the government reconsider the earlier notification.
Credits – News9live
“During discussions with the excise officials, I was told the proposal was based on Yashwant committee recommendations. At least 4-5 states have 18 years as the minimum age, but Karnataka has directed excise officials to have a uniform threshold age of 21 years in both (law) formats.” said the minister.
Besides bringing down the legal age to buy booze, the notification also proposed an amendment regarding microbreweries. The amendment is proposed to the Karnataka Excise (Brewery) (Amendment) Rules, 2023. It proposed to fix the production of beer manufactured in the microbrewery.
Credits – Mangalore Today
The amendment was aimed at helping the growth of microbreweries in the state and also increasing the revenue from that sector for the government.
The Minister stated that the draft will be in the public domain for 30 days. Following the end of the period, a formal decision will be upheld.
