WGH villagers set deadline for closure of wine shops

TURA: Villagers of Ghaguapara in Tikrikilla in West Garo Hills have demanded for the closure of three wine stores operating in the area within four months.
West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Pravin Bakshi had recently clarified that two wine stores follow government norms and are at a distance from schools and churches. But the villagers say both the retail stores are less than 100 meters from an anganwadi centre.
“How can government norms be correct in allowing wine stores near an anganwadi centre that is part of the education system,” asked village elders.
The villagers also alleged that when Excise Department officials recently visited Tikrikilla to inspect the distance between the wine stores and churches and schools, they failed to notice the anganwadi centre.
The villagers said the wine store owners try to garner support from some of the locals to ensure security for their business. They also threatened to agitate if the shops are not closed down.