The Karnataka Assembly was rocked by a heated debate over providing liquor bottles to men in contrast to cash incentives for women. One MLA proposed giving two free bottles of liquor to men every week, while another called for total prohibition in the state.

The exchange came after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s announcement in his 2025-26 Budget speech, which included a hike in the excise revenue target to Rs 40,000 crore.

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JD(S) senior lawmaker MT Krishnappa, who represents Turuvekere, criticized the government’s welfare initiatives. He pointed out that while the government has been giving Rs 2,000 to women as part of a welfare program, excise taxes have been raised three times in just a year, disproportionately affecting the poor. He argued that the state was using public funds for women’s welfare, while ignoring the needs of the working-class men who drink.

“We can’t stop people from drinking, especially the labor class,” Krishnappa said. He added, “If we’re giving Rs 2,000 per month to women, free electricity, and free bus travel, why not give men two bottles of liquor for free every week?” He further suggested the government could provide this through societies, which prompted laughter in the Assembly.

State Energy Minister KJ George quickly rebutted the proposal, emphasizing that the government’s goal is to reduce alcohol consumption. “Win the election, form the government, and do this. We are trying to make people drink less,” George said.

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Speaker UT Khader also opposed the idea, commenting, “Without giving two bottles, we are already struggling. What will happen if we give them liquor for free?”

On the other hand, senior Congress lawmaker BR Patil advocated for a complete ban on alcohol. He argued that excise revenue from liquor, often referred to as “sin money,” cannot be used to build a prosperous nation.