PUDUCHERRY:The All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA) has urged the government to reduce the number of liquor shops in the Union Territory. A resolution to this effect was passed at a public meeting held in Lawspet on Thursday.
Further, the AIDWA called upon the government to come out with a clear policy to ensure reduction in consumption of liquor and create awareness among the public about the ill effects of drinking.
According to data from the Excise department, the UT has 457 liquor outlets under the categories of wholesale, retail with bars, etc.
AIDWA Tamil Nadu state secretary S Valentina and Puducherry secretary V Chandra were among those who addressed the meeting in which a good number of women participated. Most of the speakers pointed out the collapse of families due to drinking habits and the increase in violence against women and children. Calling for a reduction in the timing of liquor outlets and bars, Valentina said lessons about the ill effects of drinking should be included in schools and colleges.
Other resolutions adopted at the meeting included banning sale of liquor sold to people below the age of 21 years.