Women in Seoni's Kanhiwara storm police station, demand raids on illegal liquor sales

Women in the Kanhiwara police station area of Seoni district took to the streets on Wednesday to protest the sale of illegal liquor. A large number of women from Navodaya Nagar Badtola and Baiga Mohalla gathered, went to Kanhiwara police station and met the station in-charge.

The women demanded that the sale of country-made (kachchi) and other (pakki) liquor in the area be stopped and that action be taken against those involved in the trade. They alleged that both kinds of liquor had been sold illegally in their neighbourhood for a long time.

According to the women, this is spoiling the atmosphere in the area. After drinking, men routinely indulge in abuse, assault and quarrels. Women and children are the worst affected, and it becomes difficult to step out of the house once evening falls.

The women also said that when they protest against the sale of liquor and try to stop those involved, they are intimidated and threatened. Despite this, they have decided to raise their voice together against the trade.

At the police station, the women asked the police to identify the illegal liquor dens and raid them immediately. They also demanded action against the sellers under the Excise Act. They further asked for police patrolling in the area to be stepped up on a regular basis so that women and children get a safe environment.

The women warned that if proper action is not taken, they will complain to senior police officers and administrative officials. They said acting only when a complaint is received is not enough, and that the sale of illegal liquor in the area must be stopped for good so that peace is maintained in the neighbourhood.