Odishatv Bureau

Bolangir: Opposing establishment of a country liquor shop in Bubel village under Puintala block of Bolangir district, hundreds of residents of the area on Monday staged hunger strike.

They allege the wine shop is having adverse effect on school going children and creates family issues. Therefore, they have been demanding relocation of the shop.

Despite repeated appeals made by villagers for the relocation, the district administration did not pay any heed to the demand forcing them to resort to hunger strike.

"We have been demanding before the Bolangir Collectorate and district Excise officials for relocation of the liquor shop. But no one listened to us. The agitation will be intensified in coming days if the liquor shop is not shifted," said tribal leader Kalandi Majhi.

"The area has become unsafe for women and girl students due to presence of drunkards. Besides, the wine shop has led to financial and family issues as men are encouraged to splurge on their drinks," agitator Jayakumari Bag said.

Meanwhile, Boalngir Excise Superintendent Bimbadhara Seth reached the spot and held discussion with villagers after which the protest was called off.

He assured agitating villagers that the liquor shop will be shifted as per the demand.

"The shop owner has been asked to us relocate the liquor shop within four months," Seth added.

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