Almora – In a significant move aimed at addressing growing public concern, the Excise Commissioner of Uttarakhand has issued an official directive stating that all liquor shops across the state facing public opposition will be closed. The order clearly mentions that if the local public is protesting against the operation of a liquor outlet, such shops must be removed immediately in the interest of public sentiment and social harmony.
Welcoming the order, Almora Municipal Councillor Vaibhav Pandey hailed the decision as a “victory of the people.” He stated that for a long time, he, along with local residents, had been opposing the liquor shop located at the entrance of Almora city, just near the Swami Vivekananda Gate. He emphasized that numerous memorandums had been submitted to the administration demanding the removal of this shop, and a massive sit-in protest had also been organized on-site.
According to Pandey, the protest was not just symbolic but a strong reflection of the public’s discomfort and moral objection to the presence of a liquor shop in such a sensitive and prominent location. “It appears that the voices of Almora’s citizens have finally reached the ears of the state government,” he said. “The Excise Commissioner’s directive to shut down liquor shops facing public opposition seems to be the outcome of our sustained struggle.”
The Councillor further stated that in the specific context of Almora, this directive should be seen as a landmark decision in favor of public interest. He expressed hope that the liquor shop near Swami Vivekananda Gate would soon be shut down as per the new guidelines and urged the state administration to enforce the order without delay and with full authority.
Vaibhav Pandey also issued a stern warning to the administration. He said that if the directive is not implemented effectively and the controversial liquor shop continues to operate, then a massive protest movement will be launched in Almora, involving the wider community. “The responsibility for any unrest or disruption caused by the continued operation of the shop will lie squarely with the administration, state government, and the Excise Department,” he added.
This issue has sparked widespread discussion across the region, with many questioning the placement of liquor shops in culturally significant and densely populated residential areas. Citizens argue that having a liquor outlet near the city’s main entrance, especially one named after Swami Vivekananda, sends the wrong message and negatively affects the moral fabric of society.
Local residents have expressed relief and hope following the Commissioner’s order and are now awaiting immediate action. The developments are being closely watched, as the implementation of this order may set a precedent for other towns and cities in Uttarakhand facing similar challenges.
As the state prepares to act on the Excise Department’s order, all eyes are on Almora to see whether the administration will stand by the people or allow business interests to override public sentiment.
