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Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government is considering steps towards making the state alcohol-free and reducing drug abuse, said Minister of Social Security & Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD), Nityananda Gond on Wednesday.
Speaking to media representatives on 26 June, the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Minister Gond affirmed that the government will discuss all possibilities of implementing an alcohol ban and minimising drug trade in Odisha fulfilling BJP’s election promise. Efforts will be made to make Odisha alcohol-free, he said.
“Many states have banned the use of alcohol. We will study the measures taken in other states regarding alcohol and drug control,” Gond stated. “The Odisha government will try to implement similar steps, and there will definitely be discussions on this matter.”
The minister emphasized the damaging effects of alcohol addiction on society and families. He noted that several states have already banned liquor at the government level, and Odisha aims to follow suit. “We plan to make Odisha both liquor-free and drug-free,” Gond declared.
However, the minister clarified that this will be a gradual process, involving consultations with various departments, including the excise department. The social security minister said that society is being polluted from the core by alcohol addiction. Hence, the government’s primary goal is to reduce drug trafficking and create a healthier society and the government is ready to take concrete decisions in this regard.
The announcement comes amidst growing concerns over increasing alcohol abuse in families and communities. Reports of domestic violence and family disputes due to alcohol and drug use have fueled public demand for stricter control measures.
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