Photo Courtesy: nenow
Aizawl: The Mizoram government has launched a rigorous screening process for individuals seeking permits to consume alcohol for medical reasons. While the state maintains a general prohibition on liquor, the new Red Card system allows for strictly regulated, medically necessary access to alcohol.
To secure a permit, applicants must provide a formal recommendation from a registered doctor. This documentation undergoes detailed scrutiny by a district medical superintendent before approval is considered. Officials have clarified that the system does not ease state liquor restrictions, noting, "Authorities have made it clear that the permit is not designed to relax the state's liquor restrictions but to accommodate exceptional medical cases."
Approved permit holders will receive authorization to purchase specific quantities of alcohol based on their individual prescriptions. Each permit remains valid for one year and carries an annual fee of Rs 5,000. Despite the official rollout of the application process by the Excise and Narcotics Department, no requests have been filed yet.
The government has established a dedicated retail outlet at the Excise Department headquarters in Aizawl to supply these patients. The store provides liquor confiscated during enforcement operations that has been cleared by the courts for disposal. Cardholders will be able to buy these items at prices below standard market rates, ensuring a controlled supply for those requiring supervised treatment.
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