The Seismicity of Liquor in Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

The state of Andhra Pradesh sought to augment its revenue resources through liberalising its liquor policy, which is expected to engender revenue worth more than ₹15,000 crores annually. The political economy of liquor has generated a lot of debate while testing the notion of a welfare state. This is organised loot by the ruling oligarchy to extract maximum yields, while diluting the gains of the development agenda. In the rural areas, the state is able to ensure liquor at the doorsteps through belt shops. Ever since the tender notification regarding setting up of arrack shops was announced, it met with an unprecedented response from those who bid, a development described in the local media, independent observers and the opposition as being part of a system of political patronage to fill the coffers of the ruling elite, local party cadres, contractors and land mafia. Almost two decades back, a vibrant civil society challenged the state, whether through the Anti-Liquor movement, Naxalite movement, the Dalit movement, etc. Unfortunately, the social movements failed to maintain an organic solidarity with the wider society and as a result, started operating in a cocoon. These enabled the state to target and accommodate these movements, thus frittering away the gains achieved by the people’s struggles. This article is an attempt to map the linkages between a liberalised liquor policy, the dubious role of the state and its ramifications for people’s welfare. It concludes by questioning the paucity of any innovative attempts to further an inclusive socio-developmental agenda whilst posing a challenge to the neoliberal state.