India, June 13 -- In a bid to augment revenue, the state excise department headed by deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar on Tuesday proposed that 2,160 new liquor shops be allowed in Maharashtra. The recommendation was part of the cabinet proposal to increase the excise duty on liquor-the latter was passed on Tuesday, leading to a huge hike in liquor prices.

The bid to increase liquor shops in the state, however, was immediately opposed by Shiv Sena ministers, citing the possibility of a backlash from the people and social activists. Ajit then offered to reduce the number to 360 shops but was still opposed by Sena ministers, following which chief minister Devendra Fadnavis put the proposal on hold.

The state government committee, set up in...