Siliguri, 22 March (Siliguri Chronicle) – Tension gripped Ward No. 42 in Siliguri near the Eastern Bypass after allegations surfaced that a liquor outlet was operating under the guise of a departmental store. Members of the Siliguri Rajbanshi Kshatriya Welfare Society staged a protest, demanding the immediate closure of the establishment.
On Sunday, protesters assembled in front of the shop, holding placards and raising slogans. They alleged that liquor was being sold from the premises under the cover of a departmental store and warned that such activities could adversely affect the social environment of the locality.
Residents said that a licensed liquor shop had previously operated at the same location in 2024 but was shut down following strong opposition. The alleged reopening of a similar outlet has once again sparked outrage among locals.
After being informed, police from Bhaktinagar Police Station reached the spot to manage the situation. Ward councillor Shobha Subba also visited the area and held discussions with both protesters and representatives of the shop, helping to bring the situation under control.
Addressing the issue, Subba said that residents’ concerns are being taken seriously. She added that the shop owner is currently away for medical treatment and assured that a meeting involving all parties will be convened upon his return to resolve the matter.
Following assurances from the councillor and the police, protesters called off their agitation. The shop was subsequently shut down.
