Shivpuri women protest against liquor shops and illegal sales

Women in several villages across the Shivpuri district of India have launched a series of protests against the availability of alcohol, targeting both licensed shops and illegal liquor dens. In areas including Sirsoud, Amola, and Chamra, protesters entered liquor stores, removed crates of both country and foreign liquor, and set them on fire or smashed bottles on the streets.

The protesters cited several grievances, including the rise in domestic violence and economic hardship caused by alcohol consumption. They also noted that some liquor shops are operating in violation of regulations by being located within 200 meters of schools, temples, and hospitals. The unrest follows reports of deaths caused by toxic liquor in the neighboring Sagar district.

In Amolpatha, tensions escalated when police used a baton charge to disperse the crowd, leading to confrontations between villagers and law enforcement. In other locations, such as Manpura, women destroyed bottles and targeted suspected illegal sale points. Authorities have deployed police forces to manage the situation, and officials stated that legal action will be taken against contractors following formal complaints.