Delhi may lower drinking age

New Delhi: Even as the debate over lowering the existing drinking age from 25 to 21 years rages on, Delhi government on Friday said it may contemplate to do so if there is a demand from people, restaurant owners and tourism industry.

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said he personally feels that whether to consume alcohol or not is a very personal issue.

“The BJP leaders who are commenting on it should look at their party-ruled states and then give a statement. No such proposal is being considered by the government yet.

“If there is a demand from Delhi’s people, including the youth, restaurant owners and tourism industry, government can contemplate on it...this is no issue where we can say that 25 years should be the age strictly (for drinking),” he said.

Delhi tourism minister Kapil Mishra had on Thursday said minimum legal age of drinking in the city should be reduced from 25 to 21 years.