The Punjab government has rejected the demand for partial opening of liquor shops during the lockdown to generate additional excise revenue. The Home Ministry has reiterated that no State would be allowed any dilution of guidelines on what economic activity is permitted during the duration of the second phase of the lock- down.

The Punjab government had written to the Home Ministry seeking exemption for liquor shops in the state during the lockdown saying these should be allowed to partially re-open as this would help in generating additional revenue since the state had faced major financial losses during the lockdown period.

This might come as a blow to the overall industry as well since the CIABC had recently sent their recommendations to the Commerce and Industry Ministry regarding the phased opening of the trade. With this move in Punjab it seems unlikely that the government will allow the opening of any sale or production of the alcobev industry.

The Kerala government had earlier this week allowed some additional economic activities than what was advised by the centre. Home Ministry officials claimed that there was no possibility of granting any state any exemptions from the lockdown till May 3rd.