IMPHAL, Oct 6: All Manipur Women’s Social Reformation and Development Samaj (Nupi Samaj) on Wednesday reminded the government regarding the October 10 deadline to roll back the Manipur government’s decision to legalize liquor in the state.
“At any condition we will not allow legalization of liquor. The government must clarify its stand on whether the decision will be revoked or not on or before October 10,” Nupi Samaj president Th Ramani Devi said.
She was talking to reporters during a sit-in-protest held by the women against the government decision to lift the prohibition on liquor partially at Thamnapokpi today.
The Nupi Samaj and Women Society, Thamnapokpi jointly organized the protest that was held at Thamnapokpi Keithel.
She informed them that the state government invited them for a talk over the matter. However, they have no willingness to give a positive response to the invitation.
“We will hold talks with the government only on certain conditions. Our stand is very clear. We will not allow legalization of liquor under any condition,” she said.
Ramani Devi also said that the evil impact given by abuse of alcohol and other intoxicants in the society is well aware by all sections of the society.
Ramani said that the Manipur Liquor Prohibition Act was enacted in the state after a massive public movement with women in the lead.
Despite knowing the fact, the chief minister did not consult with the women’s bodies and civil society organisations campaigning against alcohol and other intoxicants before taking the cabinet decision, she alleged. (NNN)