Guwahati, Feb 25: Strong opposition emerged in Rajapara under the Boko Revenue Circle in Kamrup district against the proposed establishment of a foreign liquor shop, with several local organisations warning of social and economic consequences if the outlet opened.
Reliable sources said Rabiram Narzary of Gossaigaon had nearly completed preparations to set up the shop on land owned by Gajen Rabha in Rajapara Revenue Village.
The Bondapara Regional Rabha Students’ Union, Bondapara Regional Rabha Women’s Council, Bondapara Regional Sixth Schedule Demand Committee, the All Assam Gorkha Students’ Union (Kamrup District Committee), and the Rajapara Gorkha Women’s Society jointly condemned the proposal. In a statement, the organisations warned that the liquor outlet would harm public health, weaken children’s education, erode social harmony and endanger the future of younger generations. They said easy access to alcohol could lead to addiction, domestic disputes, financial hardship and a decline in cultural values.
The groups submitted written complaints to the Boko Circle Officer and the Boko-Chaygaon Co-District Commissioner, seeking immediate intervention. They alleged that no action had yet been taken, which further angered residents. Community leaders said the administration’s silence reflected disregard for public welfare and could cause long-term damage to the village.
The organisations also warned that if the government encouraged such activities instead of focusing on infrastructure, education and road development in the backward region, a mass movement would be launched to ensure closure of the liquor shop.
Kamrup District Excise Department officer Sisir Goswami said the application for the shop had been submitted in 2021 and added that the department would examine the matter properly.
