Coronavirus: Kerala CM says 'people with doctor's prescription can get liquor' amid surge in suicide cases
With suicide cases reported from several parts of Kerala following liquor sales prohibition after the nation wide lock down, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has ordered the Excise Department to give liquor to those with a prescription from a doctor.
The move comes after several reportedly displayed severe withdrawal symptoms and suicide cases were reported in the southern state of the country.
Earlier, in Kodungaloor in Thrissur district, a youth committed suicide by jumping into the river after being affected by withdrawal symptoms.
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In another case, a 38-year-old man woking in a salon in Kayamkulam gobbled shaving lotion after he did not get alcohol. Though he was taken to a nearby hospital after he started showing signs of uneasiness, he died.
The Kerala government has also instructed the Excise Department to give free treatment and admit people with withdrawal symptoms to the de-addiction centres.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has stated that the government is also looking at option of online sale of alcohol as the unforeseen unavailability of liquor may lead to social setback.
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First published: 31 March 2020, 18:12 IST