A proposal by JD(S) legislator MT Krishnappa in the Karnataka Assembly on Tuesday stirred a controversy. During the session, Krishnappa suggested that the Congress-led government should distribute two free liquor bottles per week to men, given its ongoing welfare initiative of giving Rs 2,000 for women.
The Janata Dal (Secular) Legislator said at their cost, you’re giving Rs 2,000 per month to women, free electricity, and free bus travel. That’s our money anyway. So, for those who drink, give them two bottles of liquor free every week. Let them drink. How can we give men money every month? Instead, give them something, two bottles a week. What’s wrong with that? The government can provide this through societies.
Krishnappa further claimed that many legislators themselves consume alcohol, making a pointed remark about a former legislator’s drinking habits. His comments were met with strong opposition, particularly from women legislators, who criticised him for generalising and ignoring the presence of women MLAs who do not drink.
The debate underscored the ongoing discourse around Karnataka’s financial policies, including its extensive welfare schemes under the Congress government. While initiatives such as free bus travel and cash assistance for women have been touted as measures for social welfare, the opposition and critics argue they are financially burdensome.
