Karnataka Restaurants, Pubs To Sell Liquor Amid Lockdown As Takeaway

Restaurants, pubs, and bars in Karnataka have been shut since the nationwide coronavirus lockdown began on March 25. They have now been allowed to sell liquor at retail prices, as per government order. However, they can be sold only in takeaway form. This is to generate revenue for the state amid the coronavirus lockdown.

“Karnataka government has allowed restaurants, pubs, and bars to sell liquor at retail prices from tomorrow till May 17. However, they can be sold only in takeaway form, The establishments will be allowed to sell liquor from 9 am to 7 pm,” read an order issued by the state government on Friday

Liquor shops had re-opened on Monday in the southern state after more than 40 days. This was to revive an economy hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic. Long queues were seen outside stores across the country throughout this week as people stepped out to stock up alcohol. Karnataka recorded nearly Rs 200 crore worth of liquor sale on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

While the southern state sells alcohol at retail price. Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, and Bengal have hiked the cost of liquor. While Andhra is charging an additional 25 percent tax, Bengal is charging 30 percent tax. In Delhi, buyers have to pay 70 percent extra tax.

On Friday, the Supreme Court has advised the states to consider “non-direct sale, including online/home delivery” of liquor to ensure minimal crowds and enforcement of social distancing protocols at shops across the country.

Also Read: COVID-19 Lockdown: Karnataka records Rs 45 crore worth of liquor sales on first day