Residents threaten protests against non-eviction of illegal liquor shops

From a Correspondent

Dibrugarh, February 2:  In the matter relating to eviction of illegal foreign and country made liquor shops from areas encompassed under Ward no- 21 that had been creating social disturbances for the tive people, has once again hit the headlines with the Chief Secretary of Assam Government failing to take stern steps for evicting the same.

In a memorandum submitted to the Prime Minister, through the Deputy Commissioner, the residents of Ward No-22 have sought the intervention of the Prime Minister on the matter requesting him to direct the authorities to take fitting steps. As such, the PMO office vide letter dated 16-11-15, had issued correspondence to the Chief Secretary and Amanuddin Ahmed of Dibrugarh to respond concerning details of the matter.

But after a gap of two months, the non-execution of the eviction drive, by the authorities, have raised questions among the residents of Ward no-22. As such, they have warned to stage severe protests, and in this regard have decided to gherao the office of the Deputy Commissioner as a first step towards their dissent.

Notably, this illegal liquor shops are mainly located in the areas of Paltan Bazaar like Baah Gudaam, Chandmarighat, Notun Basti (Premgar), Dibrujan Road, Loharpatty, Maijan Road, Dibrujan Chariali, and Paltan Bazzar Chariali, where from day to dawn  the sale and purchase of liquor is being carried out.

The existence of such liquor shops have tainted, the social environment in and around the vicinity of the above areas which is mostly surrounded by educatiol, health and religious institutions. Even after repeated submission of signed memoranda by the local residents, organizations and groups, nothing has been done to resolve the issue.