Students Protest Proposed Liquor Sales at Visakhapatnam Beaches
They alleged that allowing liquor sales at beaches could affect public safety and lead to an increase in crime.
Visakhapatnam: Students under the banner of the Progressive Democratic Students' Organisation (PDSO) staged a protest at Maddilapalem Junction in Visakhapatnam on Saturday, opposing the state government’s proposal to permit liquor sales through beach shacks along the coastline.
The protesters objected to the proposal, which they said was based on GO No. 362 and intended to promote tourism and increase revenue. They alleged that allowing liquor sales at beaches could affect public safety and lead to an increase in crime.
PDSO district secretary Lakshmi said the proposal could result in more alcohol-related offences and create inconvenience for families and students visiting beaches. She also alleged that dependence on liquor revenue was not conducive to sustainable development.
Assistant secretary Janaki and other students participated in the protest and demanded a complete ban on liquor outlets. The organisation urged the government to withdraw the proposed policy, alleging that it would adversely affect Visakhapatnam's social environment.