Ramdas Athawale's army rum rant sparks row

Mumbai: Republican Party of India chief Ramdas Athawale’s comments on the availability of quality liquor in the Indian Army on Sunday in Pune have kicked up a moral-policing row. 

However, later he clarified his statement, saying he was misunderstood. Speaking at a programme commemorating the formation of the Mahar Regiment on October 1, 1941, in which Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar played a pivotal role, Mr Athawale exhorted those gathered to join the Army. 

“You will get high-protein food. You can improve your health as well as your financial situation. Don’t waste your time loafing around,” he said. He then added in a lighter vein, “You get country liquor here. Join the Army.”