India, March 19 -- A lively debate unfolded in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly on Tuesday over the state's excise revenue targets, with lawmakers presenting starkly different views-one suggesting free liquor for men, and another advocating total prohibition.

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Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's 2025-26 Budget has set an ambitious excise revenue target of Rs.40,000 crore, up from the Rs.36,500 crore expected by the end of the current fiscal.

Senior JD(S) lawmaker MT Krishnappa, who represents Turuvekere, raised the issue in the Assembly. "In just one year, the government hiked (excise) taxes thrice. This is hitting the poor. The excise targ...