Thiruvananthapuram: Despite being one of the states with the highest number of Coronavirus cases, it is not the virus that is killing people but the lack of alcohol. After the liquor shops were shut for the 21-day national lockdown due to the Coronavirus pandemic, around six people committed suicide as they failed to procure any alcohol. The victims were said to be frustrated and experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms.

The Kerala government has therefore decided to make alcohol available by issuing special passes for drinkers. Alcohol consumers can also produce a doctor’s prescription to purchase liquor. According to a Government order, limited quantities of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) can be issued to those possessing the passes.

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can range from being mild such as headaches and nausea to serious concerns like seizures and hallucinations. The order has said that those experiencing alcohol withdrawal symptoms could go to any government-run hospitals and get a prescription or opinion confirming the condition of the patient.

This can then be submitted to the Excise department along with an application form and id proofs to obtain a special pass. A record will be kept by Kerala State Beverages Corporation about every pass issued.

The government has also clarified that alcohol shops will continue to remain closed throughout the lockdown period.

This decision, however, is being criticised by the Indian Medical Association. Kerala has approximately 1.6 million alcohol addicts and according to the organisation supply of alcohol-based on prescription is unscientific and that necessary for alcoholics to receive treatment than more alcohol.