It's alarming to see over 250 liquor outlets within 100 meters of schools and religious places in Goa. The presence of these outlets disrupts the atmosphere, with intoxicated individuals often harassing women.
The government and the excise department should not renew or issue licenses for liquor outlets near schools and places of worship. The easy access to alcohol negatively impacts students, who sometimes buy alcohol themselves.
The government's focus on revenue from these shops overlooks the health and safety of women and students. Additionally, the nearby sale of gutka, cigarettes, and illegal gambling, allegedly supported by local authorities, exacerbates the problem.
It's crucial that the government and excise department immediately revoke the licenses of liquor outlets near sensitive areas, even if faced with bribes.
Failure to act may lead to public unrest. All such businesses should be relocated to maintain a peaceful environment. We urge the government to heed the concerns of Goa's citizens.
