VPP slams excise policy, alleges loss to retailers

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, May 26: Voice of the People Party (VPP) spokesperson Dr AW Rani has raised concerns over the Me-ghalaya government’s Integrated Excise Management System (IEMS), alleging the policy hurts local liquor retailers and reduces state revenue to benefit private interests.

Clarifying that the VPP does not promote liquor consump-tion, Rani insisted that government regulations must remain fair, transparent, and economically viable.

He argued that while the state should work to reduce the so-cial impact of alcohol, current policies should not undermine local businesses and workers dependent on the sector.

Rani criticised the IEMS for reducing retailers’ margins and diverting a portion of their earnings to C-Tel Infosystems Pvt Ltd, the private agency implementing the system. He claimed this arrangement weakens small businesses, threatens jobs, and could encourage illegal sales and black marketing.

The spokesperson further alleged that the system lacks transparency and suggests possible corruption. He noted that the government has reportedly maintained the reduced excise margin policy despite observations from the High Court and the subsequent withdrawal of the matter from the Supreme Court. (Contd on P-7)