And now tipplers in Kerala form Association

Fed up with the "constant harassment" from police, tipplers in Kerala which has the highest number of guzzlers in the country have formed an association to protect their rights.

Hari, one of the promoters of the association --All Kerala Madhyapana Anukoola Sangatana (All Kerala Supporters of Alcohol Consumption), said it is high time such an organisation was formed in the state.

Two of the promoters stood in front of the Secretariat here recently, holding placards demanding that the rights of those taking a drink or two needs to be protected, especially from police, who they claimed were constantly behind their back, harassing them.

They also wanted reduction in the price of Indian-made Foreign Liquor (IMFL).

The association will soon be registered, Hari said.

Action should be taken against police officials who "harass" those from the weaker sections of society, while letting off those affluent, he said.

"Either the government must ban alcohol or treat those who consume liquor as humans. Most policemen nab poor labourers, who consume a peg or two after a hard day's work, and treat them as terrorists," he said, adding, they were fed up with the "constant harassment."