Wine shop owners in Bangalore want permission to create ‘stand-and-drink’ areas near their shops where customers can consume alcohol with packed snacks. The Federation of Wine Merchants’ Association argues this system, which is already successful in neighbouring states, would boost revenue. They argue that it will also provide an affordable alternative to upmarket bars. Here are all of the other important details that you would need to know about this unusual demand.
Wine Shops In Bangalore Ask For ‘Stand-And-Drink’ Spaces
According to an article which was recently published by The Times Of India or TOI, as of now, the state has a total of 3,929 wine shops (under CL-2 licence). These wine shops can only sell alcohol. The federation contends that allowing designated drinking spots would prevent less affluent customers from consuming alcohol in public spaces.
They’ve offered to pay increased fees for these facilities and promised no cooking would take place on premises. The federation raised these demands during a protest at Freedom Park on Friday, alongside other grievances. They’re seeking an increase in retailers’ profit margin to 20 per cent.
However, their primary concern is widespread corruption and harassment affecting all 12,500 liquor outlets statewide. Karunakar Hegde, Bengaluru cluster president, highlighted how shops face trivial charges affecting their licences.
Wine Shops Forced To Pay Bribes Due To Corruption
This forces them to pay bribes despite digitalised purchasing and payment systems. Sources reveal that Bengaluru outlets pay roughly ₹40,000 to ₹50,000 monthly in bribes. In Shivamogga, on the other hand, approximately 300 outlets each pay ₹30,000 to ₹40,000.
TV Prakash, a shop owner, criticised officials’ extended tenure in the same posts, with some remaining for over five years. Federation president S Guruswamy has threatened a strike on 20 November 2024, if the government fails to address their concerns.
The federation maintains that designated drinking spots would benefit both the community and state revenue.
Do you think these spaces will cause more good than harm? Do you think such spaces should be granted? Let us know in the comments section below!
Cover Image Credits: Canva Pro Images
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.
First Published: October 27, 2024 4:36 PM