Demand to observe June 26 as dry day

Our Correspondent

Ahmedgarh/Raikot, June 26

Appreciating the administration’s move to observe June 26 as International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, residents of the region have demanded that the day should be declared as the dry day in the state.

They said owners of liquor vends and establishments serving intoxicant should be forced to follow rules strictly like other business and service organisations, which were adhering to directions of the government.

Office-bearers and activists of social organisations said liquor vends opened early in the morning and continued working till late in the night. “We are shocked to see that liquor vends situated on outskirts of towns start selling liquor much before religious places open in the morning,” said Pardeep Sethi, a social activist.

Residents said contrary to instructions of the Excise Department, contractors had established outlets at petty shops, dhabas and restaurants in their respective areas.

Meanwhile, Senior Superintendent of Police claimed that policemen led by their respective beat in charges and SHOs at Raikot, Sudhar, Jodhan, Hathur and Lohatbaddi had organised workshops and seminars today.

Office-bearers of taxi unions, truck operator associations and social organisations were roped in to educate masses about causes and consequences of drug abuse and intoxicants, he added.