CPI(M) criticizes Puducherry liquor unit approvals

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) in Puducherry criticized Chief Minister N. Rangasamy for granting no-objection certificates to six liquor units. They called his claims of generating ₹500 crore in revenue and 5,000 jobs a "cruel joke." CPI(M) leader S. Ramachandran highlighted that existing liquor units only generate ₹9 crore annually and employ about 400 people. He also raised concerns about the environmental impact and water usage of these plants. The CPI(M) suggested alternative revenue sources, such as reopening cotton and sugar mills and promoting small businesses. They indicated a potential mass movement to protect natural resources if the government continues its current policies.