Only strong political will can fight drug-alcohol menace: AMADA
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, June 19 2013:
All Manipur Anti-Drug Association (AMADA) has pointed out that only a sincere and responsible government, which has strong political will and commitment for the welfare of the people, can bring an end to the present issue of drug and alcohol in the State.
In a statement issued by its Vice President Y Sundari, AMADA pointed out that even Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh himself has admitted on the floor of the Assembly on June 14 that even though Manipur is a 'Dry State', alcohol is available in every nook and corner of the State and there is no sense in declaring dry state.
This remark of the Chief Minister indicates that he has surrendered himself from fighting against the menace of drug and alcohol in Manipur, AMADA alleged.
Recalling that widespread Nisaband movement started during early part of 1970s and subsequently, the then Government declared Manipur as dry state in 1989 along with enforcement of Manipur Liquor Prohibition Act, AMADA lamented that in spite of that everybody knows where liquors are available and local wine continues to be brewed without any restraint.
On the other hand, instead of taking action against selling of alcohol, police personnel and excise officials openly collect taxes from drinking joints, AMADA added.