Protest in Chapor against liquor shop permit

Dhubri: The reopening of a foreign liquor shop in Chapor town of Dhubri district sparked widespread protests on Tuesday, with members of the trading community shutting their businesses in solidarity.

Protesters questioned how the owner reopened the shop despite strong opposition, allegedly citing documents from the Gauhati high court.

Hundreds of demonstrators from various organisations, led by retired Chapor Ratnapith College teacher Sheikh Hedayetulla, gathered outside the shop. Addressing the crowd, he said, “A piece of paper from the high court alone could not justify reopening the outlet, as the court had heard only one side.”

“The court has not heard the sentiments of the people. Once the local administration sends its report on the row over it, things will be different,” Hedayetulla added.

Protesters alleged that the Chapor civic body had issued a “no-objection” certificate that enabled the licence, a claim previously denied by chairperson Beauty Roy.

OC Nipumoni Choudhury said police protection was provided after the owner arrived with a high court order. “But Magistrate from Bilasipara rushed to the protest site and ordered the closure of the wine shop till further order,” she added.