MYSORE: The city unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has welcomed the recent statement by Deputy Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa on banning arrack in the State in the next financial year.

Addressing a press conference here on Monday, MLC Thontadarya said the decision to ban the sale of arrack — though surprising, as it a major source of income to the Government — would save the lives of people addicted to arrack, especially in rural areas. He said it was a daring decision of the Government, which was prepared to sacrifice sizable income in public interest. The Government earned Rs. 1,905 crore last year from auctioning arrack, he said.

He said the Karnataka Development Front Government had succeeded where the Congress failed. He also urged the Government not to retract its decision under any pressure.

Asked whether the decision of the Government would help the liquor companies circulate "seconds" and "thirds" among the rural masses and would indirectly help the liquor lobby in the State, Mr. Thontadarya did not rule out the possibility. However, he said precautions should be taken against such danger.

BJP district unit president B.P. Manjunath was present.

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