Babulal Marandi slams new Jharkhand liquor policy, flags monopoly risk

THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK

Ranchi, May 26: Former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition in the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly, Babulal Marandi, met Governor Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar at Raj Bhavan today. During the meeting, he submitted a memorandum raising concerns over the state’s newly notified excise policy governing the arrangement and operation of retail liquor shops.

Points to Flaws in Current Policy

In the memorandum, Marandi highlighted potential anomalies in the new excise policy approved by the State Cabinet on May 15, 2025. He pointed out that previous excise policies implemented under the current Chief Minister’s leadership had failed to deliver promised revenue gains and had not created meaningful opportunities for local entrepreneurs or unemployed youth. Instead, he said, the policies resulted in revenue leakage and exploitation.

Marandi also cited widespread overpricing in liquor shops, stating that liquor is often sold at rates higher than the prescribed Maximum Retail Price (MRP), leading to illegal profiteering. According to him, the revenue that should reach the government is instead being siphoned off by mafias and middlemen.

Concerns Over Monopoly in Retail Distribution

The new excise policy permits a person or entity to operate up to three units (equivalent to nine shops) at the district level and up to 36 shops across the state. Marandi warned that such provisions could allow a handful of large traders to dominate the market, undermining free and transparent competition.

Demands for Reservation and Reforms

Citing the Central Government’s approach to allocating petrol pumps and gas agencies, Marandi urged the state government to introduce similar reservations in the excise policy. He recommended giving preference to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, women, persons with disabilities, and ex-servicemen in shop allocations.

He further proposed adopting a “one person, one shop” rule to expand business opportunities, reduce the scope for corruption, and prevent monopolistic practices.

Governor Urged to Intervene

Marandi requested the Governor to review the suggestions and issue appropriate directions to the State Government. He emphasized that with the right reforms, the excise policy could become more effective, inclusive, and significantly more beneficial to state revenue.