Nabarangpur: Intensifying their anti-liquor campaign, around 300 women allegedly stormed a long-closed, government-licensed country liquor unit at Baripadar village in Odisha’s Nabarangpur district and set fire to its equipment on Friday.
The incident took place under Dangariguda gram panchayat in Dabugaon block. A video purportedly showing the women setting the materials ablaze has gone viral on social media.
Armed with sticks and iron rods, the women reportedly entered the premises, dragged out plastic drums and other equipment used for liquor production and set them on fire, reducing several items to ashes.
The liquor unit had remained closed since April after its licence was not renewed. Only two to three employees were reportedly present at the premises to guard the equipment at the time of the incident.
As the unit had been lying defunct for several months, no major damage or injuries were reported. However, a substantial quantity of equipment and other materials was destroyed.
Meanwhile, the anti-liquor movement spearheaded by women’s groups in the district has gathered momentum, with protesters stepping up their campaign against the illegal sale of country and foreign liquor and liquor outlets.
There was no immediate reaction from the police or concerned departmental officials on the incident.
