Hanamkonda villages move to ban liquor sales
HANAMKONDA: Villages across Hanamkonda district are moving towards liquor prohibition, with gram panchayats passing unanimous resolutions to shut down belt shops and restrict liquor sales.
The initiative is being led by newly elected sarpanches, some of whom are implementing election promises, while others say they were influenced by the condition of families affected by alcohol addiction. Several villages in Kamalapur, Bhimadevarpalle and Elkathurthy mandals have already adopted resolutions banning belt shops.
The trend is also spreading across other parts of the erstwhile Warangal district. Panchayat authorities have warned that anyone violating the resolutions and selling liquor could face heavy penalties.
Villages cite social impact of easy liquor access
According to local representatives, the erstwhile Warangal district has 1,683 villages, with many villages having several belt shops despite the presence of licensed wine shops. In some villages, more than 20 belt shops reportedly operate, selling liquor round the clock.
Residents say liquor is being sold even on dry days such as Republic Day, Independence Day and Gandhi Jayanti. With alleged inadequate enforcement by police and excise authorities, villagers claim some localities have turned into informal drinking hubs.
Community leaders say easy access to liquor has contributed to alcohol addiction among youth, while late-night sales have been linked to disputes, accidents and crimes. Women’s groups have also demanded the closure of belt shops, citing the impact on families and household finances.
Panchayats impose fines to enforce prohibition
Several gram panchayats have announced strict penalties for those violating prohibition resolutions. In some villages, fines ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹25,000 have been proposed for unauthorised liquor sales.
Village leaders have also warned that beneficiaries involved in liquor sales could face exclusion from certain government welfare schemes. At the same time, those supporting prohibition may be given priority in community welfare initiatives.
As a result, some belt shop operators have reportedly agreed to stop liquor sales voluntarily.
Villages including Uppal, Uppalpalle, Kamalapur, Bhimpalle, Kaniparthy, Shambhunipalle, Nerella, Shanigaram and Gooniparthy in Kamalapur mandal; Bhimadevarpalle, Kothapalle and Koppur in Bhimadevarpalle mandal; and Arepalle in Elkathurthy mandal have passed resolutions supporting prohibition.
Gangadevipalli and Mariapuram villages in Warangal district are already known for implementing complete liquor prohibition. Inspired by such examples, more villages are now considering similar measures.
