The West Bengal assembly has passed a new bill that allows women to work in bars. This decision came on Wednesday when the West Bengal Finance Bill, 2025, was presented by Minister of State Chandrima Bhattacharya.

The bill aims to change the Bengal Excise Act, 1909, specifically "to remove the prohibition on employment of women in ON category liquor shops as such provision is discriminatory." This means that women can now legally work in bars where alcohol is served on the premises. Previously, this was not allowed, which was seen as unfair.

There are two types of liquor shops in the state: 'Of' shops, which only sell alcohol for people to take home, and 'On' shops, where people can drink alcohol at the shop itself. This bill mainly focuses on the 'On' shops.

During the discussion, Bhattacharya explained that the state government wants to treat men and women equally. The bill is part of that effort to ensure fair opportunities for everyone.

The bill also includes other important points. It gives the government the power to monitor raw materials like jaggery to prevent illegal liquor production. Additionally, it will update the Bengal Agricultural Income-tax Act, of 1944, to offer tax relief to the tea industry. This is especially helpful for smaller tea gardens that have been struggling since the pandemic.

Bhattacharya also mentioned, "There is no financial implication involved in giving effect to the provisions of the Bill." This means the changes won’t create extra costs for the government.

This bill is a step toward equality and helping industries recover from tough times.

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