Alcoholism is a medical condition marked by compulsive drinking. When Maem MLA Premendra Shet called for a ban on alcohol in Goa in the State Assembly, one expected serious discussion. Instead, the idea was dismissed and even ridiculed. Goa is witnessing a dangerous shift in drinking habits, with alcohol’s easy availability and low cost fuelling excessive consumption among tourists and locals alike. Almost daily, social media is flooded with reports of tourist-local clashes, murders, accidents, and crimes linked to alcohol.
Statistics show over 300 deaths annually in Goa due to liver cirrhosis, but experts believe the real toll is much higher when factoring in alcohol-related heart disease and cancers. Rash driving under the influence also claims innocent lives, masking the grim reality of alcohol’s toll.
Rather than addressing the problem, the government continues issuing liquor licenses in the name of revenue. This is the same government that turns a blind eye to multi-crore scams like land grabs, which, if investigated, could replenish the State’s coffers. Instead, it chooses to depend on blood money from the alcohol and casino lobbies.
Successful lobbying has made alcohol cheaper in real terms, leading to higher crime and mortality rates. Shockingly, there’s little enforcement of laws restricting alcohol sales near schools and colleges, and minors easily access liquor at shops, restaurants, and pubs. Happy Hours lure youngsters, but if alcohol truly brought happiness, so many wouldn’t be drowning in sorrow.
The Goa government must step up alcohol treatment facilities and revisit taxation to curb alcohol-related harm. Though opposition is expected, introspection is crucial for public health and safety. People often turn to alcohol to cope with personal struggles, but there are healthier alternatives. Quitting requires self-motivation and family support. Instead of vilifying alcoholics, society must offer understanding. If left unchecked, alcoholism will become incurable. Stay away from alcohol”because life itself is a high.
