Chhattisgarh Minister Ramvichar Netam Sparks Controversy with Comment on Alcohol and Cancer

Raipur, Chhattisgarh: Chhattisgarh’s Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam has once again made headlines with a controversial statement regarding alcohol. When asked whether drinking alcohol from plastic bottles increases the risk of cancer, the minister replied that he would speak about it only after “gaining experience.”

Minister’s Statement
Minister Netam was attending a university convocation in Durg district on Thursday when environmentalists raised concerns about cancer risks linked to alcohol sold in plastic bottles. Laughing, the minister remarked, “I do not know whether drinking alcohol from plastic bottles causes cancer or whether alcohol in glass bottles does. I will only be able to comment after gaining experience.”

The Background
The controversy comes after the Chhattisgarh government decided to introduce plastic bottles for certain categories of alcohol. Officials claimed that the move would reduce costs and simplify distribution. However, environmental groups and public health experts have criticized the decision.

Previous Controversies
This is not the first time Minister Netam’s remarks have drawn criticism. Earlier, during a visit to Gariaband district, he described obscene dances as “art,” a comment that sparked a major backlash from opposition parties.

Comments on Congress and Rice Procurement
On other matters, the minister addressed questions regarding the extension of rice procurement dates, saying that although time was short, the government had made full arrangements to purchase rice from all farmers. Criticizing the Congress party, he added, “Congress always tries to provoke unrest. The state of rice procurement under their rule is no secret.”