People seek closure of liquor vend, hold protest

Residents of Durga Garden Colony in Jagadhri staged a protest demanding the closure of a liquor vend in their area. The angry residents staged a dharna outside the liquor vend alleging that anti-social activities were increasing in the area.

After receiving information about the protest, the police reached the spot and persuaded the residents to lift the dharna. The protesters said the liquor shop was causing unrest in the area alleging the people created ruckus in the streets after consuming alcohol.

They alleged that it not only spoilt the atmosphere but also created a feeling of insecurity among women and children in the area.

“My house is situated close to the liquor vend. After consuming liquor, people often create ruckus near our house. The women and girls do not feel safe in the area, therefore, the liquor vend should be closed immediately,” said a woman.

Meanwhile, an officer of the Excise Department said some people sold liquor illegally in the area and their work was affected due to the opening of the liquor shop.

He said those involved in illegal sale of liquor wanted to get the legal liquor vend closed by instigating people of the area.

According to information, the incident took place late last night. After getting information, a police team from the police station HUDA, Jagadhri, reached the spot.

The agitated people lifted the dharna after the police officials assured them that the matter would be investigated.

Anil Saini, Inspector of the Excise and Taxation Department, said the liquor vend was a legal one. He said the liquor vend was being run at the place for several years.

Inspector Suresh Kumar, SHO, HUDA police station, Jagadhri, said after getting information of the protest, they reached the spot last night.

“We persuaded those protesting to lodge a complaint with the Deputy Commissioner, if they have any problem due to the opening of liquor vend in the area. If the Deputy Commissioner orders shifting of the liquor vend, then it will be shifted as per his orders,” said Kumar.