NOC controversy sparks protests: Chapor residents rally against liquor NOC; Demand immediate withdrawal to honor local traditions

Dhubri: Residents, people from all walks of life, and several organisations protested on Saturday against the “No Objection Certificate” (NOC) allegedly issued by the Chapor Civic Body in Dhubri district for opening a wine shop in the town. Protesters demanded that the NOC be withdrawn immediately, calling it a violation of the town’s long-standing tradition of honouring former CM Sarat Chandra Singha, known as “Jananeta”, an ardent Gandhian who opposed liquor sales.

A sit-in demonstration was held in front of the Chapor Civic Body office, with placards, banners, and slogans condemning the issuance of the NOC. Organisations including Aasu, AKRASU, Nath-Jogi Association, Chhatra Sangram Samity, Amsu, and Chapor Nagarik Mancha joined the protest along with local residents.

President of Chapor Nagarik Mancha, Prabhash Chandra Das, said residents of Chapor had long refrained from allowing any wine shop in the town out of respect for Sarat Chandra Singha’s ideals. When contacted, chairperson of Chapor Municipal Board Beauty Roy said she had not issued any NOC. “I don’t know how this was done without my knowledge. I am enquiring into the matter,” she said.