Locals Fume Over Opening Of Liquor Outlet In Odisha’s Balasore, 7 Detained

Balasore: Villagers of Laikhanpur under Khantapada in Soro of Odisha’s Balasore district are angry over the opening of a government liquor outlet in the area.

According to sources, the liquor outlet was allegedly torched by locals late on Sunday night. The irate locals also set the owner’s vehicle on fire. They alleged that the social and economic lives of people in the area have been affected due to consumption of liquor and commuters also faced the nuisance of alcoholics while using the road.

On being informed, Khantapada police detained seven persons in this connection.

The liquor shop was allegedly closed for the last three months after opposition from villagers. The shop owner then approached the Orissa High Court.

The High Court gave its judgment in favour of the shop owner last week following which the outlet was reopened in the presence of Khantapada IIC, added sources.