Illegal liquor trade thrives in Chaurpati despite municipal ban

Achham: The illegal trade of liquor continues unabated in Chaurpati Rural Municipality, Achham, despite an official ban on the sale, distribution, and transportation of substandard alcohol.

The rural municipality had introduced the prohibition to safeguard public health, but the implementation has been largely ineffective, leaving the decision confined to paper. Traders have been openly defying the ban, with liquor being sold, distributed, and transported freely within the municipality.

Previously, the sale of alcohol in Chaurpati was carried out discreetly and at higher prices. Now, however, the trade operates openly, exacerbating the municipality's inability to enforce the ban. While some political representatives and liquor merchants had earlier called for unrestricted alcohol sales, the municipality reaffirmed the prohibition on Bhadra 5, warning of strict legal actions against violators.

Local residents have expressed frustration over the municipality’s failure to implement its decisions. Substandard liquor is readily available in grocery stores, distilleries, and even transported into the area by external traders. This has led to public dissatisfaction and complaints, with locals urging the administration and police to act swiftly.

The lack of enforcement has reportedly contributed to a rise in social issues, including domestic violence, disturbances, and unrest. The police have responded to some alcohol-related incidents, such as fining individuals for causing noise disturbances, but have not taken action against those involved in the trade.

Police authorities from Chaukhutte and Siundi have acknowledged the challenge of implementing the ban without the cooperation of local representatives, residents, and the municipality. Chaurpati Rural Municipality Chairman Bhim Bahadur Saund admitted that the ban has not been fully enforced, despite efforts to implement it.

Chairman Saund emphasized that further action will be taken after the winter session. He plans to visit local communities to hold discussions with residents, women’s groups, youth, business owners, and political parties to gather feedback and develop a more effective strategy.

Under the existing municipal rules, substandard alcohol is prohibited entirely, while other types of liquor can only be sold between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. However, these restrictions have yet to make a tangible impact, leaving residents disappointed and calling for decisive action to address the growing problem.