Bhopal: In a surprising move, Madhya Pradesh’s Social Justice Minister, Narayan Singh Kushwaha, has suggested that women encourage their husbands to drink alcohol at home. His reasoning? The presence of family members will create shame and help men gradually give up their drinking habit.
The Minister’s Remarks
Addressing a “de-addiction campaign” in Bhopal, Minister Kushwaha emphasized the role of mothers and sisters in curbing alcohol addiction. He urged wives to tell their husbands not to drink outside in the market. Instead, they should say, “If you want to drink, eat food and stay in front of me.” According to Kushwaha, if men drink in front of their wives, their alcohol consumption will decrease over time.
Encouraging Domestic Violence?
The opposition Congress party swiftly condemned Kushwaha’s statement, expressing concern that it could lead to more incidents of domestic violence. Congress leader Sangeeta Sharma argued that the main cause of such violence is addiction and alcohol. She pointed out that over 17,000 cases related to domestic violence caused by alcohol are pending before the Madhya Pradesh Women’s Commission.
The Impact on Families
Kushwaha believes that men will feel ashamed to drink alcohol in front of their wives and children. He even suggested that wives form local groups and use the traditional “belan” (rolling pin) to discourage those with drinking habits. The minister’s unconventional advice has sparked debate and calls for an apology.
