Vijayawada: The bandh call given by the APNGOs to make the state and Central governments feel the heat of the movement in Seemandhra districts could not stop liquor traders from opening their shops. They did a roaring business on Tuesday.
On the contrary, the activists forced closure of educational institutions on Monday. Samaikyandhra activists ensured that educational institutions and commercial establishments, including kiosks of petty traders, remained closed all through the day even while wine shops, bars and restaurants remained open on MG Road and Eluru Road. The protesters did not threaten any of the liquor traders to close the shots.
The traders did a brisk business as officials of the excise department are not on strike and did not pose any problem to them.
Usually, bandh is observed up to evening and liquor shops, bars are not affected by it as their business begins in the evening. However, on Tuesday, the shops remained open from the morning.
Sale of liquor contributes more revenue than any other department in Krishna district, which earns Rs 1 crore a day through it.
“It would be better if the protesters can ensure that liquor shops are also closed as it would hit the revenue of government and the leaders will know of the reality. Forcing
closure of educational institutions will only spoil the future of students,” said B. Joseph, a private employee at M.G.Road.
Source: Deccan Chronicle