Daijiworld Media Network - Raichur (MS)

Raichur, Oct 30: "Ban alcohol completely before the next assembly elections," urged Medha Patkar, environment activist and convener of Nasha Mukth Bharath at a state-level convention and rally organized by the Ban Alcohol Movement Karnataka at the premises of Agricultural Produce Marketing Corporation (APMC) of Rajendra Ganj here on Sunday, October 29.

She inaugurated the convention by breaking a beer bottle. "Time for change has arrived. We have planned state-wide movement under the banner 'Ban alcohol by hook or crook'. Political parties have to fulfil our demand," she added.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Shivamurthy Shivacharya, seer of Taralabalu, Sirigere, Chitradurga, said, "Alcohol needs to be banned throughout Karnataka state. Let this movement continue till all the political parties assure the public of the same. Let this movement spread to even the remotest village of Karnataka and succeed in its mission."

He also asked the government to take bold step to ban alcohol throughout the year regardless of days on which festival or fairs are celebrated or elections are conducted.

Lal Hussain Kandagal of Inakal, progressive thinker and sister Teena, pro-women activist also spoke on the occasion.

Around 8000 people mainly women took part in the convention.

Emulate Tipu

A press meet demanding the liquor ban was also held. Dr Shivamurthy Shivacharya asked the government to emulate Tipu Sultan by enforcing liquor ban rather than by celebrating his birthday.