India: The cost of being ‘high’ during the pandemic lockdown

The third phase of lockdown starting Monday brought some good news for tipplers. The Indian Government decided to open standalone liquor shops after 40 days in all areas except for containment zones. The order came with the directive to follow social distancing norms, and not more than five people allowed at one time.What followed this decision was sheer negligence on the part of citizens. According to ground reports, people thronged to the vends from morning itself even though the opening time is around 11 am. There were long queues of people waiting to get a bottle of their favourite brand. Pictures are showing chaotic scenes with people tripping over one another to claim their bottles of liquor. With lines extending for meters and people flouting social distancing norms, is the decision to open the liquor shops a wise one?There is no doubt to the fact that liquor sale is a significant source of revenue for the State Government. The record-breaking sale of over 300 crores registered on the first day is a testimony of the same. However, the same day, the Government also recorded the highest spike in COVID cases across the country. There is no evidence to prove the number of cases that may have happened due to the opening of the liquor shops. But the possibilities are that the number of cases will increase if people continue to flock the liquor shops.While the economic slowdown is at its peak, collecting quick funds through alcohol sales is the rationale of the Government behind its decision. Yet, it seems that our policymakers did not foresee the ripple effect that came with the order. Within two days, there are cases of drunk driving registered by the police. People are seen bickering on the streets, and ramming their cars in walls after being intoxicated. The law and order situation is at stake in various places.