Belagavi: "Our own children come home drunk and hit us; our families are being pushed to the streets" — these were the heart-wrenching words of hundreds of women from Chachadi village, Belagavi taluk, who staged a massive protest today. A sit-in demonstration was held in front of the Belagavi Regional Commissioner's office, demanding an immediate end to the rampant illegal liquor sales in their village.

Peace and Harmony Shattered in the Village

The women made serious allegations that illegal liquor is being sold openly in most of the grocery stores in Chachadi village. As a result, men and youth in the village are falling prey to alcohol addiction, completely shattering the peace and happiness of their families.

Key Grievances of the Protesters:

Young men returning home intoxicated are physically assaulting their own parents. Respect for elders has vanished. With drunkards looming in every nook and corner of the village, it has become difficult for women and children to move around safely. Since all hard-earned money is being spent on liquor, poor families are being driven into destitution.

Demand to Shut Down MSIL Outlet

The protesters are not just demanding an end to illegal sales but are also insisting on the immediate closure of the MSIL (Mysore Sales International Ltd) liquor outlet in the village. "The government must take strict action for the sake of our children's future," the women urged.

Memorandum Submitted to Officials

Following the protest, a delegation of women submitted separate memoranda to the Regional Commissioner, the Belagavi Deputy Commissioner (DC), and the Excise Commissioner. They warned that if strict legal action is not taken against the shopkeepers selling illegal liquor, they will intensify their struggle.