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West Bengal Announces New Restrictions on Liquor Shops Near Educational and Religious Institutions

OdishaConnect — Wed, 27 May 2026 02:26:12 +0000

In a recent statement, BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari announced a set of policy-related decisions concerning liquor shop regulations and welfare initiatives in the state. According to his remarks, strict restrictions will be imposed on the opening of alcohol outlets near educational and religious institutions.

Liquor Shops Banned Within 1 km of Schools, Colleges, and Temples

Suvendu Adhikari stated that no new liquor shops will be permitted within a one-kilometre radius of schools, colleges, and temples. The move is intended to improve the surrounding environment of educational campuses and places of worship.

He further added that approvals for new liquor outlets in such sensitive zones will be completely stopped going forward.

Welfare Initiative: ₹5 Fish and Rice Meals

Alongside the liquor policy announcement, Adhikari also mentioned a welfare initiative aimed at providing affordable meals to low-income groups. Under this plan, fish and rice meals will be made available at just ₹5 in approximately 400 special canteens across the region.

The initiative is expected to benefit economically weaker sections by ensuring access to low-cost nutritious food.

Broader Government Schemes Mentioned

It was also noted that forms for the “Annapurna Scheme” will be issued on May 27. Under this scheme, eligible women are expected to receive ₹3,000 per month as financial assistance.

States Where Alcohol is Fully Prohibited in India

India has a varied policy landscape when it comes to alcohol regulation. Complete prohibition exists in a few states:

Bihar – Alcohol prohibition implemented in April 2016
Gujarat – Long-standing prohibition policy
Mizoram – Alcohol ban enforced with certain regulatory changes over time
Nagaland – Official prohibition laws in place, though enforcement varies

In addition, the Supreme Court of India had earlier directed that no liquor shops should be located within 500 metres of national and state highways, a ruling that significantly impacted liquor licensing policies across the country.

The announcements attributed to Suvendu Adhikari combine regulatory restrictions on liquor outlets with social welfare measures such as subsidised food schemes. While the proposals are being discussed politically, their implementation would depend on official government approval and administrative execution.

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Supreme Court Criticises States for Failing to Address Stray Dog Menace

OdishaConnect — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 10:14:47 +0000

Court Expresses Anger Over Non-Compliance
The Supreme Court of India has strongly criticised states and union territories for failing to act on its earlier directives concerning the growing menace of stray dog attacks. Despite an August order mandating the sterilisation and vaccination of stray dogs, only Telangana and West Bengal have complied by submitting affidavits. The apex court has now directed Chief Secretaries of all defaulting states and UTs to appear in person on November 3, 2025, to explain their non-compliance.

Bench Terms Situation a “Shame” for the Nation
A bench led by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai came down heavily on state governments, expressing deep concern over the recurring attacks on children. The Chief Justice remarked, “It’s a shame, and if it continues like this, people abroad won’t want to visit India.” The observation came after several disturbing reports of stray dog attacks across the country, including incidents in Pune and Bhandara, where a child was mauled by a pack of over 20 dogs.

Delhi, Other States Summoned to Court
The Court has ordered the Chief Secretary of Delhi to appear as well, noting that the Delhi government had failed to file its compliance affidavit. It reiterated that the issue cannot be ignored any longer, and that state apathy has tarnished India’s image internationally. Telangana and West Bengal were praised for adhering to the court’s previous instructions, standing as the only compliant states.

Protection of Citizens a Constitutional Duty
The Supreme Court stressed that ensuring the safety of citizens—especially children—against stray dog attacks is a constitutional responsibility of state authorities. The bench warned that continued negligence would not be tolerated and hinted at possible stringent action if no concrete measures were presented during the next hearing.

Stray Dog Attacks on the Rise Nationwide
Reports indicate a steady rise in stray dog attacks, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas. Experts have linked the problem to poor sterilisation drives, lack of coordination between municipal bodies, and inadequate funding for animal control programmes. The Court’s latest intervention underscores the urgency for systematic action to address a public safety crisis that has persisted for years.

A Wake-Up Call for State Authorities
With the Supreme Court’s strong rebuke, the onus now lies on state governments to implement large-scale sterilisation, vaccination, and rehabilitation of stray dogs. As India faces global scrutiny, this judicial push may finally compel local administrations to act decisively against a problem that has long endangered both lives and the nation’s reputation.

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