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JVP puffs for ‘illegal’ white beedi
By Sachitra Indivara Mahendra
The government is granting an amnesty of one year for those who are making or selling an illegal form of cigarettes known as 'white beedi', following a proposal by the JVP that it was a poor man's product.

The JVP's Deputy Rural Industries Minister, Sunil Handunnetti, has proposed that this variety of Beedi be legalised, though it is not legal now and excise officers are conducting raids on those who make or sell them.

Excise Commissioner R. P. E. Bandara said the one year amnesty for white beedi would be followed by legislation to legalise and impose a tax on it. Reports said an increase in use of the white beedi had led to a drop in tobacco tax revenue from cigarette sales.

The excise chief said they also hoped to enforce some quality control on white beedi after it was legalised.
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