WHENeverything else fails, try a dose of populism. The beleaguered Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala has decided to refurbish its image by taking a few tips from N.T. Rama Raos success formula. A high-powered UDF think-tank has recommended a total ban on arrack and an "attractive" subsidy on rice as part of the package to woo voters for the general elections. Kerala Chief Minister A.K. Antony has given his approval to the scheme.
The UDF think-tank met at the residence of Irrigation Minister T.M. Jacob on November 1. The convener of the meeting, K. Sankaranarayan, confirmed that the populist measures had been the focal point of discussion and that the chief minister, who was present at the venue, made it clear that he would announce the package shortly. The logistics of the move were also discussed.
The ban on arrack will come into force by the end of this financial year. There are 6,000 arrack shops in the state and the ban would cost the state exchequer an annual loss of Rs 250 crore. The decision to clamp down on sale of the government-approved country liquor comes in the wake of pressure from womens organisations following the death of 14 persons after consuming adulterated arrack recently.
Rationed coarse rice sells at Rs 5.75 per kg. The proposed additional subsidy will bring down the price by Rs 2.50 per kg. This populist move will cost the state government Rs 500 crore annually, but will benefit 55 lakh ration-card holders. The UDF is pinning its hopes on the success of the package to turn the popular tide in its favour.
