Proposal to ban toddy unscientific, says CPI-M

"The move is 'unscientific' and will destroy the traditional toddy tapping industry, rendering hundreds of workers in the sector jobless," CPI-M state secretariat said in a statement.

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), the second largest partner in the UDF, had welcomed the High Court's recent suggestion that the government consider banning toddy sale in the state.

CPI-M statement said A P Udayabhanu commission, which had earlier studied the possibilities of introducing prohibition in the state had recommended that mild drinks like toddy should be promoted.

While the liquor mafia should be controlled by the government, the policy of protecting traditional tapping industry should continue, it said, adding steps should be taken to reduce consumption of alcohol.

The government should also take stringent action against shop owners who sold adulterated toddy, the statement said.