Liquor traders strike in Rajasthan, seek longer hours
Jaipur, Feb 16
Liquor traders across Jaipur on Monday shut their shops and staged a protest outside the Excise Office in Jhalana, demanding an extension in liquor sale timings and an end to what they described as unwarranted police harassment.
The strike received a mixed response in the city, with the majority of liquor vendors supporting the protest, while a few establishments initially remained open before being persuaded to shut down by office-bearers of the traders' body.
Hundreds of traders gathered under the banner of the Raj Liquor Welfare Society and marched to the Excise Office during the day.
The protest was primarily directed against the state government's new excise policy, particularly the proposed 12.5 per cent increase in liquor sales targets.
Society President Nilesh Mewara alleged that while the government had raised the sales target, it had failed to extend liquor sale hours as previously promised, placing additional pressure on traders.
A delegation of the protesting traders met District Excise Officer Mahipal Singh and submitted a memorandum outlining their demands and grievances.
The memorandum highlighted concerns over increased financial targets and alleged harassment by local police personnel during routine checks. Later, another delegation met Excise Commissioner Shivprakash Nakate at the Secretariat.
According to traders present at the meeting, the Commissioner assured them that their demands would be considered positively after discussions at the government level.
He also promised to immediately speak with senior police officials regarding complaints of harassment.
Following the Commissioner's intervention and reported assurances from police authorities, the traders decided to call off the protest.
Liquor shops across Jaipur began reopening around 2 p.m., restoring normal business operations in the city.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Living near a liquor shop, I've seen the problems firsthand. Fights, noise late at night... it's a worry for families. Extending hours sounds like a bad idea for neighbourhood peace. The government should focus on regulating better, not just increasing revenue.
Typical government move! Promise one thing (extended hours), deliver another (higher targets). Small business owners always get squeezed. If the police harassment stops as promised, that's a good outcome from the protest. 💪
Interesting to see collective action work. The Commissioner's quick response shows the power of organized protest. However, as a visitor to India, I'm always struck by the complex relationship with alcohol here compared to back home.
The state's addiction to liquor revenue is the real issue. They hike targets every year to fill coffers, ignoring social costs. We need a more responsible policy, not just longer hours for sales. Jai Hind.
My husband runs a small shop in another line. I sympathize with the harassment part. Local police can make life very difficult for shopkeepers over small things. Glad that was addressed. Hope the solution is permanent.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.