Dweep MP urges UT admin to withdraw decision to serve liquor

Kochi: Lakshadweep MP M Hamdullah Sayeed wrote to the Union Territory administration, objecting to the move to make liquor available on more islands of the archipelago. The letter was sent against the backdrop of the administration's decision to declare the Dak Bungalows on Chetlat and Bitra islands as licensed premises to serve liquor to persons holding a valid permit or licence under the Lakshadweep Prohibition Regulation. "These islands have long been known for their peace, harmony, and strong social fabric. The introduction of liquor in these small communities already started creating serious social disturbances," he said in the letter. It added that there were growing reports that the easy availability of alcohol was leading the younger generation towards addiction. "This, in turn, is causing family disputes, social discord, and potential law and order problems in what were once tranquil and orderly islands," the letter said. The MP urged the administration to withdraw the permission immediately. TNN