The Kerala government on Tuesday came out with a set of guidelines for the home delivery of liquor to those showing withdrawal symptoms. As per the guidelines, three litres of liquor will be supplied every week to those who produce a certificate from a government doctor.
The directive came hours the state medical officers association (KGMOA) said they will observe a black day on Wednesday to protest against the government’s plan.
As per the medical terminology, those who are addicted to liquor but not getting the supplies show withdrawal symptoms. The government is of the view that the non-availability of alcohol has led to a few suicides in the states and there is a need to provide regulated supply of alcohol to such persons.
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All bars, liquor retail outlets and toddy shops in the state have been closed after the Centre announced a nationwide lockdown to contain the coronavirus outbreak.
According to the guidelines, those who are showing withdrawal symptoms will be issued a pass which will have to be given to the office of the Kerala State Beverages Corporation. The corporation will deliver the liquor to their home.
However, the medical fraternity in the state has strongly come against the move, saying this will affect the doctors’ morale.
"There are scientific methods of treating people with withdrawal symptoms and that's the medical protocol. This is something which will affect our morale and numerous side effects will surface. We will not be doing this," Vijaykrishna, a KGMOA office bearer, told IANS.
The KGMOA has announced that they will work wearing black badges on Wednesday to protest against the government’s decision.
