Speaking to the media on Thursday, Bharadwaj stated that the Rekha Gupta-led BJP government is preparing to set up these showrooms in prominent public spaces.
File Photo: IANS
The Aam Aadmi Party on Thursday strongly opposed a reported proposal by the Delhi government to open premium liquor showrooms inside shopping malls and metro stations. AAP Delhi unit chief Saurabh Bharadwaj leveled accusations that the move is designed to lure young people towards alcohol consumption.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, Bharadwaj stated that the Rekha Gupta-led BJP government is preparing to set up these showrooms in prominent public spaces.
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He contrasted this with the past, recalling that during the AAP government’s tenure under Arvind Kejriwal, the number of liquor vends was reduced. At that time, he said, BJP leaders had criticized the administration, claiming there were too many shops.
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“On one hand, they will shut down Mohalla Clinics that provide free healthcare to the public, and on the other, they will open large premium liquor showrooms in shopping malls and metro stations,” Bharadwaj said.
He questioned the necessity of placing showrooms in such locations, arguing that anyone wishing to buy liquor could visit a regular vend. “The purpose of establishing premium showrooms is clear: that even those who do not consume alcohol will be tempted to walk in, see the bottles, and buy them,” he noted.
Bharadwaj alleged the BJP aims to attract the youth and push them towards drinking. He called for clarity from the government on why it wants to “display” alcohol and demanded that BJP minister Parvesh Verma explain how his committee recommended opening such showrooms.
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