Lok Sabha has passed a bill that provides for transferring from the central government to the states the control over industries engaged in the production of potable alcohol. The Industries (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, was passed by a voice vote in the absence of Congress and Trinamool Congress which were boycotting the House over some “objectionable” remarks by a BJP member against Rahul Gandhi and Nehru-Gandhi family.

Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the amendment would bring potable alcohol under the jurisdiction of states and help address the issue of litigations which have been filed. The Bill proposes to amend the first schedule of the Act so that it would be “in conformity with the judgement of the Supreme Court (of 1997) and also ensure that the industries engaged in the manufacture of alcohol meant for potable purposes shall be under the total and exclusive control of states in all aspects”.

According to the Minister, the Bill is to implement the Supreme Court ruling in 1997 whereby potable alcohol is to come under the control of states. Sitharaman expressed hope that alcohol and ethanol would be used more for purposes that would improve energy and fuel efficiencies rather than going towards production of potable alcohol which is detrimental to the health of people.