Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Barkheda residents staged a protest on Sunday, raising slogans over a liquor shop proposed in a residential complex.
They said their religious sentiments were hurt as the proposed shop was near temples.
Besides, the opening of wine shops in Karond, Bawadiakalan, Malviya Nagar, E-4 Arera Colony, and Awadhpuriwas also protested against.
Citing the Supreme Court’s decision in MC Mehta vs. Govt of India, residents argued that commercial activities causing public inconvenience should not be allowed near residential areas, schools, or hospitals.
They pointed out that the proposed shop is hardly a fewmetres away from the society’s entrance and is surrounded by other residential complexes and schools.
The shop’s location near several schools sparked fear of increased crime and harassment of school girls.
Similarly, raising concerns about a liquor shop near the market, hospitals, and temples, the residents emphasised that the area is a peaceful residential and educational zone, making the shop’s location inappropriate.
Barkheda resident Sunil Jain said, “The presence of a liquor shop will not only be a security risk but also negatively impact our children and society.” “Having a liquor shop near a school will negatively impact students, increasing exposure to substance abuse and its adverse effects on physical and mental health.
It also raises the likelihood of anti-social elements gathering in the vicinity, creating an unsafe environment forwomen, children, and senior citizens,” another resident, Rakesh Kumar, said.
District administration officials said any shop found to be allocated in violation of rules and guidelines will be shifted. However, license holders, if found complying with the regulations, will not be forced to shut down.
