NAGAPATTINAM: Looks like the phrase- 'Drive sober or get pulled over' has derived a new meaning in a coastal hamlet of Nagapattinam. It could well be understood as 'Stay sober or pay a fine,' as the fishermen's panchayat, along with around 200 families in Vilunthamavadi, a fishing village near Velankanni, has prohibited unmarried youth from consuming alcohol. Those who violate the restriction will be fined Rs 5,000. The initiative has been implemented since August 2.
Married men will also face a Rs 5,000 fine if they drink and indulge in heated arguments with their family or create a public menace. According to a council member, the move aims to curtail the growing nuisance committed by people, mostly under the influence of alcohol. "Whenever a public nuisance takes place, usual perpetrators would be in an inebriated condition. Due to this, we have come to a collective decision of practicing the above restrictions," said Suresh Kumar, a council member.
Fishermen also recalled an accident where an 18-year-old youth died allegedly under the influence of alcohol. "Disputes in families, accidents, feuds in the streets, and a growing unsafe atmosphere for women and children because of alcohol consumption were among the concerns that have made us resort to this decision," said Megala Paneer Selvam, a fisherwoman.
"This initiative could prevent the youth from turning into addicts. The village is much better now after the ban," she added. The panchayat body has also announced a Rs 2,000 incentive for those who provide evidence of alcohol consumption to village leaders. A banner carrying the slogan, "Let us eradicate alcohol and protect the people," has been put up as part of the awareness campaign.
Senior police officials said necessary action would be taken if issues arise, including instances of people being forced to pay fines or facing social boycott for refusing to do so. They added that, if necessary, a peace meeting would be held with the villagers to understand their concerns and the purpose behind the decision.