A consortium of pressure groups in Rongjeng have expressed apprehension after a bonded warehouse opened near Rongjeng market “dangerously” close to several educational institutions.
The 10 different pressure groups said that the warehouse violates regulations on liquor licensees that prohibit such establishments within 200 metres of places of worship, hospitals and educational institutions.
“It is distressing to note that the bonded warehouse was granted a licence without proper consultation with civil societies, stakeholders and the public, disregarding the potential negative impact on the student community and society at large,” a joint statement said. “The Supreme Court of India has explicitly directed states to refrain from permitting liquor outlets near places of worship, hospitals and educational institutions, a directive that is being blatantly ignored by the operation of this bonded warehouse and wine shop.”
While revenue generation is important for Meghalaya, it cannot come at the expense of the well-being of students and society, the groups added while calling for the warehouse’s relocation.
